New York, N.Y. — The fight against HIV/AIDS is at a critical juncture. Decades of progress in reducing deaths and infections could be undone if the U.S. government pulls its funding from global HIV/AIDS programs. The United Nations AIDS agency (UNAIDS) has issued a stark warning this week, estimating that more than six million people could die in the next four years if these cuts go through.
Since its inception in 2003, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) has saved millions of lives, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. However, the Trump administration has signaled a potential withdrawal of support, putting millions at risk. Organizations relying on U.S. funding for antiretroviral treatment, prevention programs, and community outreach efforts may be forced to shut down, reversing years of progress.
“The world is at a tipping point,” said UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima. “If the U.S. withdraws its support, we could see a resurgence.”
Right-wing social media continue to engulf the Internet with insane claims that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) allocated $15 million for condoms to the Taliban, sparking significant controversy and skepticism. This assertion was notably made by Rep. Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) during an interview with CNN anchor Boris Sanchez, leading to a heated exchange.
USAID officials have categorically refuted these allegations, however, emphasizing that no direct assistance has been provided to the Taliban. The Right-wing social media made it up.
The Stewardship Report breaks this purported US$15 million down: the cost of a standard condom varies globally but averages $0.05 per unit, for 300,000,000 condoms. The Taliban comprises approximately 75,000 members. This represents 4,000 condoms per Jihadist.
AIDS Epidemic Resurging? Trump’s Funding Cuts Put Millions at Risk (Feb. 14, 2025)
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