James Gilmore, the former U.S. ambassador for the OSCE, is advocating for the Trump administration to redirect funds that were cut from USAID to take on the escalating global dominance of China and Russia.
While aligning with President Trump’s belief that “cutting foreign funding” is necessary, Gilmore argues for a more strategic approach in reforming foreign aid.
“The choices we make today will shape tomorrow’s world. If we begin by neglecting foreign aid, we risk allowing China and its allies to dominate,” Gilmore expressed to Fox News Digital. “It’s crucial for the U.S. to enhance military and national security capabilities while implementing strong ‘soft’ power strategies and diplomatic efforts to combat the rising influence of China and Russia.”
Recently, in a piece he wrote, Gilmore stressed that every dollar spent on foreign aid should reinforce America’s safety and align with national interests, viewing aid as an investment in the future.
He has also voiced concerns over a rising tide of isolationism among Republicans, particularly as adversaries utilize soft power tactics to extend their reach.
Gilmore cautioned, “When America withdraws from global leadership, we create a fertile ground for instability, and our rivals will capitalize on it.” He added that in the absence of U.S. leadership, “fragile nations can become breeding grounds for terrorism and drug trafficking.”
The narrative stands that both China and Russia have ramped up their economic investments globally in recent years, particularly targeting Africa, where several USAID initiatives aimed at combating hunger and disease have been halted.
In February 2024, Russia boasted of sending over 220,000 tons of free grain to six African countries, indicating their increasing influence in the region.
By November 2024, President Putin pledged full support to Africa in its battle against terrorism and extremism.
Conversely, China has also made substantial contributions toward global economic development, with reports indicating a 525% increase in spending over the past 15 years. In September 2024, President Xi Jinping announced a commitment of $51 billion over three years to further these efforts.
Gilmore emphasized that countering China and Russia’s encroachments hinges heavily on the outcome in Ukraine. He perceives the ongoing conflict there as pivotal for the future, asserting that the U.S. cannot afford a defeat for Ukraine.
“This battle is a frontline struggle between democratic values and authoritarianism, playing out in both military and soft power arenas,” he explained.
Furthermore, Gilmore articulated that if Ukraine were to fall, Putin would have more resources to support his allies, potentially rekindling his ambitions toward a reconstituted Russian Empire, and complicating European relations with the U.S.
