Foreign aid is always political, always strategic, and always controversial.
Despite loud debates in Washington about “spending abroad,” the U.S. commits less than 1.2% of the federal budget to foreign aid.
But that small slice adds up to nearly $72 billion in 2023 — and it says a lot about America’s global priorities. Here’s where the money actually goes.
Ukraine: $16.0 Billion (36.6%)
No surprise — Ukraine dominates U.S. aid flows, reflecting the war with Russia. More than a third of all American aid in 2023 went here.
Ethiopia: $1.68 Billion (3.8%)
The U.S. pours in humanitarian and development funds as Ethiopia faces conflict, famine, and fragile governance.
Jordan: $1.20 Billion (2.7%)
A longtime ally in a rough neighborhood, Jordan gets steady economic and military assistance.
Afghanistan: $1.09 Billion (2.5%)
Even after the U.S. withdrawal, aid continues — mainly humanitarian, given the country’s collapse.
Somalia: $1.05 Billion (2.4%)
Aid here targets food insecurity, drought response, and counterterrorism stability efforts.
Congo: $940 Million (2.1%)
One of Africa’s most unstable regions, the DRC remains a priority for humanitarian and health aid.
Syria: $890 Million (2.0%)
Despite fading from headlines, Syria still receives substantial U.S. aid tied to ongoing humanitarian crises.
Nigeria & Yemen: ~$820 Million Each (1.9%)
Both countries are high on Washington’s radar — Nigeria for health and stability, Yemen for relief amid war and famine.
South Sudan: $740 Million (1.7%)
Peace remains fragile here, so U.S. aid focuses on stability and humanitarian needs.
Kenya: $680 Million (1.6%)
Kenya benefits from health, governance, and regional security support.
Historical Heavyweights: Israel & Egypt
Beyond 2023, the lifetime leaders remain Israel ($337B) and Egypt ($199B). Both continue to receive billions annually, primarily military support.
The Bottom Line
Foreign aid isn’t just charity — it’s strategy. In 2023, Ukraine took the lion’s share, while the rest clustered across Africa and the Middle East. The U.S. funds friends, stabilizes fragile states, and keeps conflicts from spilling wider. That mix — humanitarian urgency plus geopolitical insurance — will keep defining America’s aid map.
