“We’re confident at least 60 of these were doing something we didn’t like.”
State Department officials faced an awkward moment Friday when reporters asked them to name the 66 international organizations the United States withdrew from earlier this week, and they were unable to do so without consulting notes. The withdrawal, which President Trump called a blow against “globalist agendas,” included 35 non-UN organizations and 31 UN entities.
“Look, we have a list,” a senior official said, shuffling through papers. “It’s a long list. That’s sort of the point. We can get you the list.”
A Comprehensive Review That Was Very Thorough
According to the White House, the 66 organizations withdrawal followed “a review ordered earlier this year of all international intergovernmental organizations, conventions, and treaties” that the United States participates in or funds. Officials stressed the review was exhaustive.
“Every single one of these organizations was carefully evaluated,” the official said. When asked to describe the evaluation criteria, they paused. “Whether they advance globalist agendas over U.S. interests.”
Pressed on how “globalist agenda” was defined, the official said, “You know it when you see it.”
A reporter asked about the International Hydrographic Organization, which appeared on the list. The official looked uncertain.
“Hydro… that’s water, right? Water is very important to national security,” they said. “Next question.”
Savings Under Review
The White House touted the withdrawals as saving “billions” of taxpayer dollars, though officials could not immediately provide a total figure.
“We’re still calculating,” a spokesperson said. “But it’s definitely billions. Or at least many millions. A significant amount.”
When asked if any of the 66 organizations might need to be rejoined for practical reasons—such as international mail delivery, aviation safety, or maritime navigation—the official dismissed the concern.
“If we need something, we’ll just do it ourselves,” they said. “That’s what America First means.”
The complete list of organizations is available on the White House website. It is 14 pages long. Officials encouraged reporters to read it “when they have time.”
Developing.
About the Author
