President Trump's suspension of U.S. foreign aid has abruptly halted critical support for Vietnamese victims of Agent Orange, undermining decades of reconciliation efforts and strategic partnerships in the region.
Damien Cave reports for The New York Times.
In short:
- Nguyen Thi Ngoc Diem, born with severe deformities due to her father's exposure to Agent Orange, recently benefited from a U.S.A.I.D.-funded graphic design program.
- The recent freeze on U.S.A.I.D. funding has stalled essential projects, including decontamination of former American air bases and mine-removal operations, jeopardizing 30 years of progress in U.S.-Vietnam relations.
- Vietnamese leaders and American officials express concern that halting these programs damages trust and hampers efforts to address the war's lingering impacts.
Key quote:
"It makes no sense. Agent Orange came from the U.S. — it was used here, and that makes us victims. A little support for people like us means a lot, but at the same time, it’s the U.S.’s responsibility.”
— Nguyen Thi Ngoc Diem
Why this matters:
The cessation of aid not only abandons individuals still suffering from the Vietnam War's toxic legacy but also risks destabilizing strategic alliances in Southeast Asia, potentially empowering regional adversaries. As the world moves forward, the lingering effects of Agent Orange serve as a stark reminder of the enduring consequences of chemical warfare. Addressing this legacy requires sustained international commitment to environmental restoration and support for those still suffering its aftermath.
Read more:
