In 2025, the dispute between billionaires Bill Gates and Elon Musk escalated over the Trump administration’s second-in-command’s decisions to reduce US foreign aid. Musk was appointed to lead the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), where he oversaw a wide-ranging cut to the US Agency for International Development (USAID), sparking widespread controversy and sharp criticism from Gates.
🧨 Background to the Dispute
USAID Shutdown: Under an austerity plan, Musk oversaw the dismantling of USAID, resulting in thousands of layoffs and the closure of vital humanitarian and health programs in Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Bill Gates’ Criticism: Gates described the move as a “humanitarian catastrophe,” warning that the aid cuts could lead to the deaths of more than a million children due to the disruption of vaccination and disease control programs.
The Times
Musk’s Response: Musk defended his decisions, arguing that USAID was a “corrupt organization” and that the funds should be used efficiently within the United States.
⚖️ Legal Controversy
The dismantling of USAID sparked legal controversy, with some arguing it was unconstitutional, given that the agency was established by an act of Congress. Lawsuits were filed against the administration, resulting in temporary injunctions halting some actions.
🌍 Global Implications
Health Programs Halted: The closure of USAID halted programs to combat AIDS and malaria, negatively impacting millions of people in developing countries.
Aid Void: The aid cuts created a vacuum in humanitarian support, which other countries, such as China, could exploit to enhance their influence through their development initiatives.
🧾 Conclusion
The dispute between Gates and Musk is an embodiment of a broader conflict over the role of the United States in providing foreign aid. While Gates believes that aid is essential for saving lives and promoting global stability, Musk believes that government spending cuts should include foreign aid.
This controversy reflects the challenges facing humanitarian policy amid shifting political and economic priorities.
