WHO staff express devastation over U.S. exit as Canadian expert calls for increased support

A Canadian health expert reports that staff at the World Health Organization (WHO) are "devastated" by President Trump's order for the U.S. to exit the agency. The U.S. contributes 18% of WHO's budget, and its withdrawal could threaten global health efforts. Dr. Madhukar Pai, attending meetings in Geneva, expressed concern that the loss of U.S. funding would impact programs and public health responses, especially during disease outbreaks. He urged Canada to increase its support to the WHO amid rising vaccine-preventable diseases. The WHO stated it "regrets" the U.S. decision and hopes for a reconsideration. The situation raises concerns for Canada, given its proximity to the U.S. and the potential for health threats to cross borders.