US Completes WHO Withdrawal, Leaving $260 Million Debt

The United States has completed its withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO) after a year, leaving behind a debt of $260 million.

The withdrawal, initiated by then-President Donald Trump, terminates US funding to the organization and recalls personnel working in WHO offices.

Trump had accused the WHO of mismanaging the COVID-19 pandemic and lacking independence. Despite the withdrawal, the US has not paid its debt, which the WHO estimates at $260 million.

The withdrawal of the US, the largest donor to the WHO, jeopardizes programs to combat diseases such as HIV, polio, and Ebola. The European Union had urged the US to reconsider its decision.

The State Department is working with approximately 60 countries on global health initiatives, and announcements are expected regarding the future US strategy in the field of health.

Argentina has also expressed its intention to withdraw from the WHO.