Trump announces US withdrawal from World Health Organization

President Donald Trump announced on January 20, 2025, that the United States will withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO). He criticized the agency for mishandling the COVID-19 pandemic and claimed it was influenced by political pressures from member states. The withdrawal will take effect after a 12-month notice period, during which the U.S. will stop its financial contributions. The U.S. is the largest donor to the WHO, providing about 18% of its funding, which could impact various health programs. Trump's order also halts U.S. negotiations on the WHO pandemic treaty and plans to reassign government personnel working with the organization. This move follows previous attempts to exit the WHO during his first term, which were reversed by President Joe Biden.