WHO expresses regret over US withdrawal and hopes for reconsideration

The World Health Organization (WHO) expressed regret over President Trump's decision to withdraw the United States from the agency. WHO's Director-General hopes the U.S. will reconsider, emphasizing the importance of their partnership for global health. Trump signed an executive order on January 21, officially terminating U.S. membership in WHO, which will take a year to finalize. This decision removes the largest financial contributor, impacting WHO's ability to address health emergencies. The U.S. has been a founding member of WHO since 1948, playing a key role in global health initiatives. WHO highlighted past successes, such as eradicating smallpox and combating polio, and noted the potential consequences for both global health and the U.S. healthcare system.