Humanitarian Crisis in Sudan: Impact of US Aid suspension

Donald Trump’s 90-day freeze of on all foreign humanitarian assistance has triggered a catastrophic crisis in Sudan, a country enduring of two years of civil war with more than 30 million people in desperate need of help to survive. Nearly 80% of the emergency food kitchens have been forced to close due to the lack of funding, leaving approximately two million individuals at risk. This conflict, which erupted in April 2023 between the Sudanese army and the paramilitary rapid support forces (RSF), has already led to thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions creating food shortage and severe famine conditions.

Throughout the conflict, emergency food kitchens have played a vital role in providing crucial help for all communities impacted. Previously, these kitchens heavily relied on the U.S agency for International Development (USAID), which contributed to approximately 75% of the cash-based assistance necessary for their operations. However, as of January of 2025, President Trump issued an executive order suspending all U.S humanitarian aid for a 90-day review. This leads to great uncertainty and doubt about all future funding for the sustaining of the food kitchens.

In response to the funding crisis, private donations including those from the Mutual Aid Sudan Coalition, have emerged to attempt in filling the gap for the aid typically provided by the US. However, it is evident that these efforts alone are insufficient to meet the overwhelming needs of the population, the urgency of the crisis increases, people are in desperate need for help.

As the humanitarian situation in Sudan continues to deteriorate, with millions facing starvation, Refugees begin to undertake perilous journeys to flee their countries, as they seek for safety and security. Organizations such as the World Food Programme (WPP) and the United Nations High Commissioner for refugees (UNHCR) face significant challenges in supporting and compensating the Sudanese refugees in neighboring countries such as Egypt, Chad, and South Sudan. These countries are already currently living under very limited and restrictive conditions, the overwhelming arrival of Sudanese refugees fleeing starvation has made their situation increasingly more challenging.

The crisis in Sudan is a catastrophe unfolding in this very present moment, with millions of individuals facing starvation, living under disastrous conditions. The suspension of the U.S aid has left millions in peril leaving many without food, security, and hope. This situation represents a humanitarian emergency which requires international attention and action. A

sense of helplessness and urgency is rising as the food kitchens begin to close due to the evident lack of funding and resources. Refugees who have already lost everything are obliged to seek a place that can provide them with the conditions to survive.

Plett, Barbara. “Sudan Conflict: USAID Cut Hits People “Screaming from Hunger.”” Bbc.com, BBC News, 25 Feb. 2025, www.bbc.com/news/articles/cy7x87ev5jyo. Accessed 25 Feb. 2025.

Gabe Joselow. “How Trump’s USAID Overhaul Could Lead to Famine in Sudan.” NBC News, 11 Feb. 2025, www.nbcnews.com/news/world/trump-usaid-cuts-sudan-famine-civil-war-rcna191389. Accessed 25 Feb. 2025.