Sharjah24 - AFP: President Donald Trump on Monday signed an executive order directing the United States to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), a body he has repeatedly criticized over its handling of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Speaking at the White House hours after his inauguration, Trump said the United States was paying far more to the UN body compared to China, adding: "World Health ripped us off."
The United States, the largest donor to the Geneva-based organization, provides substantial financial support that is vital to the WHO's operations.
Its withdrawal is expected to trigger a significant restructuring of the institution and could further disrupt global health initiatives.
This marks the second time Trump has sought to sever ties with the WHO.