U.S. Increases Nepal Flood Aid to $3.6 Million

The United States Department of State increased its emergency funding for Nepal to $3.6 million after initially releasing $500,000 to assist victims of catastrophic flash floods and mudslides. The disaster resulted in more than 1,000 deaths and left 4,400 people missing. The expanded funds are intended to provide food, blankets, and shelter for 10,000 households.

Humanitarian experts and former officials criticized the initial $500,000 allocation as pitiful and embarrassing. Critics argue that U.S. response capacity has declined since the dismantling of USAID in July 2025 by the department of government efficiency led by Elon Musk. While the State Department describes its current needs-based model as fast, flexible, and driven by conditions on the ground, some observers suggest the U.S. is losing its leadership in regional disaster relief to India and China.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the administration's primary focus is the rescue of American citizens. The State Department noted that the initial funding was intended to move immediate assistance while assessments were still being conducted.