Trump intends to cancel $5 billion in allotted international aid funding

In a move that could potentially lead to a government shutdown, President Donald Trump has decided not to spend $4.9 billion in congressionally approved foreign aid. This decision, which challenges Congress's spending powers and marks the first such instance in the last 50 years, comes amidst an already contentious battle over government funding, due to lapse on September 30.

The Trump administration's decision to dismantle USAID, the chief US foreign aid agency, since taking office, has been a precursor to this move. The funds cancelled include those allocated for 'global LGBTQI+ awareness' ($4 million), the 'Global Labour Programme', and 'inclusive democracy' programs in South Africa amounting to $2.7 million.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that funding for programs violating Mr. Trump's "America First" priorities has been scrapped. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, on the other hand, has criticised the move, stating that it is further proof that President Trump and Congressional Republicans are rejecting bipartisanship. Schumer also warned that Democrats won't be party to the potential destruction caused by Republicans' insistence on going it alone.

Democrats are seeking guarantees from President Trump that he will spend money lawmakers appropriate in exchange for their votes to keep the government open. The decision to block foreign aid is being seen as another test for President Trump in consolidating power in the White House.

It is not clear who the congressman President Trump informed about the cancellation of the foreign development aid was, as the name is not mentioned in the provided search results.

The move intensifies an already contentious battle over government funding, which is due to lapse on September 30. The potential consequences of this decision, including the possibility of a government shutdown, remain to be seen.