In a dramatic move on his first day back in office, former President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to officially withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO). The signing took place during a live televised ceremony at the White House, marking a significant shift in the U.S.’s global health policy.
The decision to withdraw, which was initially announced in 2020 but temporarily halted under the Biden administration, follows Trump’s ongoing criticism of the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, alleging undue influence from China and mismanagement of the global health crisis. Trump has repeatedly claimed that the WHO has failed to act independently and transparently, undermining U.S. interests and global health standards.
The move is expected to have wide-ranging consequences, both for global health diplomacy and U.S. relations with the international community. Experts predict that this withdrawal could further strain U.S.-China relations and potentially disrupt international efforts to combat emerging health crises. While Trump has defended the decision as a necessary step to protect American sovereignty and reduce reliance on international organizations, critics argue it could isolate the U.S. and hinder future pandemic preparedness and response.
As the U.S. navigates its future relationship with the WHO and other international health agencies, the global community remains divided on the long-term impact of this high-profile policy reversal.
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