President Trump has announced on Tuesday that the United States has decided to cut funding of the World Health Organization.
Trump accused the WHO of failing to do its job to stop the virus from spreading to other parts of the world when it surfaced in China.
“The WHO failed in their duty and must be held accountable.” He said at the White House during a press briefing.
The US, which is the largest funder of WHO, contributes 452 million US dollars yearly.
The WHO director-general did not comment on the issue at the time of this report. But said the agency is interested more in halting the spread and impact of the disease.
“There is no time to waste. The WHO is focused on working to stop the COVID-19 pandemic and save lives.” DG, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus tweeted.
United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres while responding, said: “Now is the time for the international community to work together and for unity in solidarity to stop this virus and its shattering consequences.”
China, Russia, and the European Union have all joined hands to condemn the decision of the United States.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said, “This is a very selfish approach by the US government to what is happening in the world.
“It is a big blow to the organization at a time when the world communities are looking at it for a solution. The step is worth condemning.”
The European Union Rep for foreign affairs, Josep Borrell, condemned the act and said there is no reason to justify such movement.
The decision of the US will weaken the capacity of WHO and undermine the international corporation to fight this epidemic.” Said spokesman of Chinese foreign ministry, Zhao Lijian.
