Hot Update: Trump Signs Presidential Memorandum Directing U.S. Withdrawal From 66 International Organizations.

President Donald J. Trump on Wednesday signed a presidential memorandum ordering the United States to withdraw from 66 international organizations, a sweeping move the White House said is aimed at refocusing American foreign policy on national interests and reducing involvement in bodies deemed ineffective or misaligned with U.S. priorities.

According to the memorandum, the organizations targeted no longer serve American interests or provide sufficient value to justify continued U.S. participation and funding.

Administration officials said the decision follows a comprehensive review of U.S. commitments across multilateral institutions, evaluating cost, effectiveness, and alignment with U.S. sovereignty and strategic goals.

“This memorandum ensures that American resources are used to benefit the American people,” a White House official said, describing the action as part of a broader effort to streamline U.S. engagement abroad and end what the administration views as wasteful international entanglements.

The move builds on Trump’s long-standing criticism of international organizations, particularly those associated with the United Nations system, which he has frequently accused of inefficiency, bureaucratic overreach, and bias against the United States.

During his presidency, Trump previously withdrew the U.S. from several major agreements and bodies, arguing that multilateral frameworks often place unfair burdens on the country.

Supporters of the memorandum argue that withdrawing from the 66 organizations will save taxpayer money, restore policy independence, and encourage more direct, bilateral relationships with allies.

They say the decision sends a clear message that U.S. participation in international bodies is not automatic and must deliver measurable benefits.

Opponents, however, warn that the mass withdrawal could diminish U.S. global influence, weaken international cooperation, and allow rival nations to expand their influence within the very institutions the U.S. is leaving.

Critics also caution that exiting certain organizations could complicate cooperation on issues such as health, security, trade, and humanitarian assistance.

Legal and diplomatic experts note that while a presidential memorandum can initiate withdrawals, the process may vary depending on each organization’s governing rules and, in some cases, may require congressional notification or approval.

As the policy moves forward, the administration said it will continue to review U.S. participation in remaining international organizations to ensure alignment with national interests.

The memorandum marks one of the most significant restructurings of U.S. international engagement in recent history and is likely to remain a central topic of debate in U.S. foreign policy discussions.