Media reports that US authorities lift freeze on federal aid. White House denies this

The media outlet recalls that the White House Office of Management and Budget's order to freeze federal aid, approved on Monday, January 27, created uncertainty for schools and organizations that rely on the trillions of dollars coming from Washington. It also forced the White House to clarify what exactly the funding pause would apply to.

Unnamed AP sources confirmed that on Wednesday, January 29, the Office of Management and Budget revoked the order, sending a two-sentence notice to agencies and departments.

"This is an important victory for the American people whose voices were heard after massive pressure from every corner of this country — real people made a difference by speaking out," said Senator Patty Murray (Washington).

What the White House says

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt emphasized that the US authorities have not lifted the freeze on federal funding.

"It is simply a rescission of the OMB memo. Why? Why? To end any confusion created by the court's injunction. The President's EO's on federal funding remain in full force and effect, and will be rigorously implemented," she added.

Controversial decision

Earlier, it became known that the US authorities had decided to temporarily suspend the issuance of all grants and loans. This did not apply to social security or health insurance programs.

Assistance provided to individuals was also not halted.

Under the new order, agencies were required to suspend all activities related to the distribution of federal financial aid.

Notably, on January 24, it was reported that the US had suspended the issuance of most foreign aid grants.