Oslo: The Norwegian government has announced a 300 million kroner ($28.7 million) emergency fund to support Norwegian NGOs and UN programs affected by the recent US foreign aid cuts.

The funds will primarily assist Norwegian organizations that have been severely impacted by the US funding halt, as well as UN initiatives combating gender-based violence and supporting reproductive health, according to an official statement.

At the end of February, the US administration, led by President Donald Trump, announced massive cuts in foreign aid, including a 92% reduction in funding for USAID's international programs.

Norwegian Minister for Cooperation and Development, Asmund Aukrust, emphasized the importance of global humanitarian efforts, stating, "The international humanitarian system is a success. Millions of lives have been saved, in part thanks to US financing and political leadership. We cannot accept the idea that it is a waste of money."

While advocating for reform and efficiency in humanitarian aid, Aukrust reaffirmed Norway’s commitment to supporting vulnerable communities worldwide.

Of the 300 million kroner aid package:

-220 million kroner will be allocated to Norwegian NGOs to assist displaced persons, children, youth, and landmine victims.

-40 million kroner will support initiatives combating sexual and gender-based violence and promoting sexual and reproductive health services in crisis situations.

-The remaining 40 million kroner will fund humanitarian logistics, analysis, and shared services.

The Norwegian government’s move highlights its stance on maintaining global humanitarian aid, despite the US’s drastic funding reductions.