President Trump mocked Lesotho during a Congressional speech, referring to it as a country “nobody has ever heard of” while defending drastic cuts to foreign aid. He highlighted an $8 million program promoting LGBTQI+ rights, despite Lesotho’s significant challenges with HIV/AIDS. The Trump administration has reduced foreign aid, claiming it is contrary to U.S. interests.
During a Congressional speech on Tuesday, President Donald Trump ridiculed the nation of Lesotho, describing it as a country that “nobody has ever heard of” while defending his significant foreign aid cuts. He referenced an $8 million initiative aimed at promoting LGBTQI+ rights in Lesotho, struggling with the country’s pronunciation as Republican lawmakers laughed, and Vice President JD Vance and Speaker Mike Johnson grinned behind him.
Lesotho, a landlocked African nation, grapples with one of the highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rates globally. The United States has invested over $630 million since 2006 in combating the disease there, providing essential medication and social support, particularly for marginalized sexual minorities.
Additionally, the United States recently entered into a $300 million agreement with Lesotho to support health and agricultural development through the Millennium Challenge Corporation. This program allocates U.S. funds to developing nations that adhere to democratic and governance standards. With the Trump administration’s return to office, more than 90 percent of foreign assistance has been suspended, as it is deemed inconsistent with American interests.
In summary, President Trump’s remarks about Lesotho during his Congressional speech highlighted his controversial stance on foreign aid. By dismissing Lesotho as unknown, he underlined his administration’s push to cut significant aid programs, despite the important support the U.S. has provided to combat HIV/AIDS. This issue raises questions about global health priorities and the implications for marginalized groups in countries receiving such assistance.
Original Source: www.ndtv.com
