Ivory Coast loses U.S. aid for counter-terrorism efforts

Ivory Coast is losing U.S. aid aimed at countering extremism as violence in the Sahel region rises. The Trump administration's aid cuts have ended a $20 million program that supported local job training and community safety initiatives. The U.S. previously helped strengthen local resilience against extremist groups by providing resources and training. With the aid now terminated, residents of Kimbirila-Nord express concern about their safety and the potential resurgence of extremist threats. Despite Ivory Coast's relatively stable economy, many rural areas lack basic services. The community had plans for further development, but fears have grown that without U.S. support, they may be vulnerable to extremist influences.