Speaking at the annual winter conference of governors at the White House on Friday, Trump said, "$29 million was sent to strengthen the political situation in Bangladesh. That money went to an organization that no one has heard of. The organization only had two employees. Imagine!"
He added, "A small farm, where maybe they used to get $10,000 here and there. But suddenly they got $29 million from the US government! They must be very rich now."
Trump also said sarcastically, “They will soon be featured on the cover of a famous business magazine—as the 'Great Scammers'!”
Trump also criticizes India's projects
Before addressing Bangladesh, Trump also commented on a development project in India. He said, "My friend Prime Minister Narendra Modi was being given $21 million to increase voter turnout in India. But why not increase voter turnout in our country? I want more voters too!"
Trump's comments suggest that he is opposed to sending US aid abroad and that he sees these donations as a waste.
During his presidency, Trump launched the 'DOGE' (Department of Government Efficiency) under the leadership of Elon Musk, whose main goal was to reduce government spending and eliminate unnecessary programs.
A total of 17 international aid programs, including projects from Bangladesh and India, have been canceled on the recommendation of this department.
In response to Trump's comments, the Bangladesh government called the matter 'unrealistic and misleading'.
A government spokesperson said, "Transparency of international donations is ensured in Bangladesh and all donations are spent appropriately. Trump's accusation is politically motivated."
A Foreign Ministry official said, "International organizations in our country operate according to specific rules. We will investigate to which organization this $29 million went."
Many analysts believe that Trump's statement is essentially a political campaign tactic, in which he wants to question the aid sent abroad in front of the American people.
"Trump has always opposed sending aid outside the United States. His statement is made for political purposes and it needs to be confirmed whether there is truth behind it," said an economic expert.
Donald Trump's statement could have an impact on Bangladesh-US relations. The Bangladesh government could give an official explanation on the matter and the US administration could order a new investigation.
It remains to be seen how true this allegation is and how the US administration and the Bangladesh government respond to it.
