It could make it very difficult for investigators of Russian war crimes in Ukraine.
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It could make it very difficult for investigators of Russian war crimes in Ukraine.
What is happening?

The Trump administration is recommending a halt to funding nearly two dozen global programs that investigate war crimes and promote justice, three sources tells Reuters.
The media has also reviewed internal government documents, confirming the suggestion.
Would hit Ukraine hard

According to Reuters, the affected countries includes Myanmar, Syria, Ukraine, and others where atrocities have drawn international condemnation.
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The recommendation, originating from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), could significantly shift the U.S.’s global human rights stance.
Decision Not Final, State Department May Appeal

The decision isn’t set in stone, however. The State Department can appeal to keep specific initiatives alive, potentially setting the stage for a tense internal negotiation between the OMB and Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s team.
Programs Spanning Multiple Conflict Zones Face the Axe

Targeted programs span a wide geographic range: from Iraq and Afghanistan to Belarus and South Sudan.
These initiatives have long supported efforts to investigate crimes like torture, sexual violence, and genocide, often partnering with local groups and international legal networks.
Slim Hope Rubio Will Fight for All Programs

Sources familiar with the process express skepticism that Secretary Rubio will push back aggressively.
Still, there’s cautious optimism he might try to save a handful of strategically important efforts, particularly those related to Ukraine’s ongoing war crimes investigations.
Ukraine War Crimes Projects in Jeopardy

Several Ukraine-focused initiatives may be terminated, including those led by Global Rights Compliance and Legal Action Worldwide.
These groups are critical in collecting evidence of war crimes and supporting local legal proceedings against Russian perpetrators.
State Department Has July 11 Deadline to Respond

According to Reuters, internal communications show that departments wanting to preserve any programs must submit justifications by July 11.
These appeals must directly align with current administration priorities, making the bar for retention particularly high.
Longstanding Justice Initiatives Under Threat

Many of the programs now at risk have existed through both Republican and Democratic presidencies.
They empower local civil society groups in countries recovering from atrocities, offering technical aid and long-term support for justice and reconciliation.
Broader Pattern of Foreign Aid Rollbacks

The proposed cuts reflect a broader trend under the current administration, which has significantly reduced foreign aid in alignment with its “America First” doctrine.
Previous freezes have already hindered global humanitarian and justice missions, including those related to Ukraine.
$18 Million Ukraine Justice Grant Could Be Lost

Among the targeted cuts is an $18 million grant to support Ukraine’s Prosecutor General’s Office, managed by Georgetown University.
Though it doesn’t impact military efforts directly, advocates say it’s key to documenting atrocities amid Europe’s most devastating conflict since WWII.
Programs in Myanmar and Syria Also Face Cuts

Efforts addressing Myanmar’s Rohingya crisis and war crimes under Syria’s former regime are also on the chopping block.
While there is room for appeal, officials warn that only programs with strong alignment to administration priorities are likely to survive.