Trump's Withdrawal from 66 International Organizations: A Shift in US Foreign Policy

In a significant shift in foreign policy, President Donald Trump has signed a memorandum to withdraw the United States from 66 international organizations. This move, aimed at prioritizing American interests, includes both non-UN and UN-affiliated entities. The decision has sparked discussions about the implications for global cooperation and the future of US involvement in international affairs. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has defended the action, labeling many of these organizations as ineffective and contrary to US interests. This article delves into the details of the withdrawal and its potential impact on international relations.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 8, 2026, 09:26 IST

US President's Bold Move

On Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced a significant policy change by signing a presidential memorandum that initiates the withdrawal of the United States from 66 international organizations deemed no longer beneficial to American interests.

This directive mandates US agencies to halt their participation and financial support for 35 non-UN organizations and 31 UN-affiliated entities that are perceived to undermine US national interests, security, economic well-being, or sovereignty.

Among the organizations affected is the India-led International Solar Alliance, along with various environmental groups such as the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.

The UN bodies from which the US is withdrawing include the UN Population Fund, the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, the International Law Commission, the International Trade Centre, and the Peacebuilding Commission.

The White House emphasized that these withdrawals aim to eliminate American taxpayer funding for entities that promote globalist agendas at the expense of US priorities.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that the decision to exit these organizations stems from their perceived anti-American stance, labeling them as ineffective or wasteful. He noted that a review of additional global entities is currently underway. “These withdrawals fulfill a key promise made by President Trump to the American people - we will cease funding globalist bureaucrats who act against our interests,” Rubio remarked.

The Trump administration has previously cut support for various multilateral organizations, including the World Health Organization, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, the UN Human Rights Council, and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization.