Biden's budget proposal would slash military aid to Tunisia
Tunisia's president further cemented his hold on power this week as US lawmakers urged the Biden administration to scrutinize its security aid to the country.
The Biden administration has proposed cutting US military aid to Tunisia by nearly half as the North African country’s leadership continues on the path toward authoritarianism.
Washington’s annual budget released earlier this week calls for $61 million in military and security aid to Tunisia next year, down from $112 million requested for this year.
The budget also calls for reducing State Department economic aid to Tunisia by $40 million, a nearly 50% reduction from this year's request. The proposed cuts come as the cash-strapped government in Tunis is exploring the possibility of a bailout with the IMF.
“The United States seeks to continue support to the Tunisian people and encourage the government’s return to constitutional governance,” a State Department spokesperson told Al-Monitor via email. “Reductions in US economic and security assistance, in comparison to prior year requests, reflect our significant concerns over continuing democratic backsliding.”
