The Trump administration has urged the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to align its foreign aid policies with the “America First” agenda. A memo issued to more than 10,000 USAID staff on Saturday outlines the administration’s vision for transforming global aid, warning of “disciplinary action” for noncompliance.

The order builds on a “ceasefire” order issued by the State Department on Friday, effectively halting all foreign aid except emergency food assistance. The pause applies even to previously approved aid, and will remain in place until it is reviewed for consistency with U.S. foreign policy goals. USAID programs are now undergoing a “comprehensive review,” and all assistance must be subject to rigorous scrutiny. Exceptions to the suspension, including life-saving assistance, require two layers of approval from USAID leadership and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

The decision has raised concerns among humanitarian organizations, who are concerned about the impact on vulnerable populations globally. The United States is a critical provider of humanitarian assistance, especially in regions like Sudan where millions face famine. The United Nations has warned that reducing U.S. assistance could exacerbate humanitarian crises, especially in conflict zones.

The memo says that all communications within USAID and with the State Department must be approved by senior officials, and that the administration’s control over foreign assistance operations must be strengthened. As the review period continues, questions remain about the long-term implications for global development efforts.