In a surprising development, President Donald Trump has indicated a possible reconsideration of the United States’ decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), just days after he formally signed the withdrawal order. Speaking at a rally in Las Vegas on Saturday, Trump stated, “Maybe we would consider doing it again, I don’t know. Maybe we would. They would have to clean it up.”
This remark comes in the context of a decision announced earlier this week, following Trump’s inauguration for his second term, that the U.S. would exit the WHO by January 22, 2026. Trump’s move to leave the organization stems from his criticism of its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global health issues, with the U.S. accusing the WHO of inefficiency and an undue influence from China.
As the largest financial contributor to the WHO, the United States donates roughly $130 million annually, a vital sum that helps fund global health preparedness, disease response, and initiatives such as the fight against HIV, tuberculosis, and childhood vaccination. In the 2024-25 budget cycle, U.S. contributions amounted to $662 million, representing nearly 19% of the WHO’s total revenue.
Trump has repeatedly voiced his frustration about the disparity in contributions between the U.S. and China, noting that despite its significantly larger population, China contributes less to the global health body than the U.S. does.
Following the announcement of the U.S. exit, the WHO expressed regret and urged the U.S. to reconsider its decision, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration for global health. The organization posted on social media, “We hope the United States will reconsider and we look forward to engaging in constructive dialogue to maintain the partnership between the USA and WHO, for the benefit of the health and well-being of millions of people around the globe.”
While Trump has left open the possibility of re-engagement, it remains to be seen whether the U.S. will return to the WHO or continue its path toward withdrawal, which is scheduled for 2026.
Sources:
- WHO official statements
- U.S. media reports on WHO funding contributions
