How Trump's Aid Cuts Are Costing Lives in Sudan—The Largest Crisis on Earth

How Trump's Aid Cuts Are Costing Lives in Sudan—The Largest Crisis on Earth

Author: Global Dispatches July 3, 2025 Duration: 23:44

As of July 1, what remains of USAID's programming is being folded into the State Department. The independent agency, created 64 years ago to advance American values and support global humanitarian causes, is no more. With USAID's demise comes a staggering human cost. The Lancet today published a study finding that more than 14 million people — a third of them children — will die by 2030 if current U.S. foreign aid cuts remain in place.

Behind those numbers are countless stories of tragedy — and heroism.

My guest today, Katharine Houreld, is the Bureau Chief for East and Southern Africa for The Washington Post, who recently reported from Sudan on the devastating impact of the swift and sudden cutoff of American aid. We begin our conversation with the stories of individuals living through it — from the grieving mother of a toddler who died of an easily preventable chest infection, to the soup kitchen volunteers fighting to keep their neighbors alive as food supplies vanish.

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For years, Global Dispatches--World News That Matters has carved out a unique space, going beyond the headlines to explore the forces and figures shaping our world. This isn't about rapid-fire soundbites; it's a series of substantive conversations with the people directly involved-diplomats negotiating treaties, reporters on the ground in conflict zones, and scholars analyzing long-term trends in global development and international relations. The discussions delve into the "why" behind the news, providing context that is often missing from daily reporting. Recognized by The Guardian as a podcast designed to make you smarter, it serves an audience that feels underserved by superficial summaries. Each episode is built on the premise that complex events deserve nuanced explanation. By listening, you gain access to a clearer, more informed perspective on pivotal issues, from geopolitical shifts to humanitarian crises. The podcast’s longevity as an independent program speaks to its consistent quality and dedicated following. Tune in for a deeper, more thoughtful analysis of the stories that truly matter, presented through the voices of those who know them best.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Global Dispatches -- World News That Matters
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