Trump Orders U.S. Withdrawal from 66 International Organizations in Major Policy Shift.

Trump Orders U.S. Withdrawal from 66 International Organizations in Major Policy Shift.

On January 7, 2026, President Donald Trump signed a Presidential Memorandum directing the United States to withdraw from 66 international organizations, including 35 non-UN entities and 31 UN-affiliated bodies.

The administration described the move as a major realignment of U.S. foreign engagement, aimed at ending participation in organizations it says no longer serve American interests.

The White House explained that the withdrawals are intended to stop U.S. taxpayer funding for entities that prioritize global agendas over domestic needs. Many of these organizations, officials said, promote policies conflicting with U.S. sovereignty, economic strength, or national security. The administration framed the action as part of a broader effort to “restore American independence” and focus on national priorities.

The memorandum instructs all executive departments and agencies to cease involvement with the targeted organizations. Officials emphasized that resources freed up by the withdrawals will be redirected toward domestic initiatives, including infrastructure, military readiness, border security, and protection of American businesses.

This move continues a series of high-profile international exits under the Trump administration, following withdrawals from the World Health Organization, the UN Human Rights Council, and the Paris Climate Agreement. The administration described the policy as part of an “America First” approach, prioritizing sovereignty and unilateral decision-making over global cooperation.

The announcement has drawn mixed reactions. Critics argue it could reduce U.S. influence on global issues and weaken collaborative efforts in climate, health, and human rights, while supporters say it protects national sovereignty and ensures taxpayer money is spent effectively. The White House stressed that the directive sends a clear message: international engagement must serve U.S. interests or not occur at all.