The U.S. Supreme Court delivered an unexpected ruling on Friday, allowing the Trump administration to halt more than $4 billion in foreign aid approved by Congress.
The temporary freeze, granted through an emergency order, underscores a growing battle over who controls federal spending the president or lawmakers.
The court’s conservative majority concluded that presidential authority in foreign affairs appears to “outweigh the potential harm” to nations depending on the funds.
The decision does not end the legal fight but blocks aid distribution while lower courts hear the case.
The three liberal justices strongly opposed the ruling.
Justice Elena Kagan issued a sharp dissent, warning of the stakes.
“At issue is the allocation of power between the Executive and Congress over the expenditure of public monies,” she said.
Kagan criticized the manner in which the order was issued, noting it came with “scant briefing, no oral argument, and no opportunity to deliberate in conference.”
She warned the freeze would prevent billions in aid from ever reaching those in need.
“Because that result conflicts with the separation of powers, I respectfully dissent,” she added.
Since taking office, President Donald Trump has sought tighter control over government spending.
In a controversial move, he tasked Elon Musk, the world’s richest man, with helping to streamline U.S. agencies.
Among their key targets is USAID, which oversees health and emergency programs in more than 120 countries.
The Supreme Court’s decision now gives the administration broader room to act while lawsuits continue.
The blocked funds were intended for humanitarian and development efforts, ranging from health programs to emergency food assistance.
However, administration officials argue the freeze protects U.S. interests and ensures money is not “misused” abroad.
The case now returns to lower courts, where the debate over separation of powers will continue.
Meanwhile, aid groups are bracing for disruptions.
