In a significant diplomatic move, U.S. President Donald Trump has categorically denied any involvement of the United States in the ongoing crisis in Bangladesh. Speaking at a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington, Trump dismissed a question on the issue, stating, “I’ll leave Bangladesh to PM Modi.”

The statement comes as the U.S. government, through its international donor agency USAID, announced an immediate halt to all aid to Bangladesh. The decision affects all projects, including contracts, grants, cooperative agreements, and other procurement mechanisms funded by the U.S. government in the South Asian nation.

The U.S. aid cutoff targets the government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, an internationally renowned economist and social entrepreneur. The USAID issued a letter instructing all implementing partners to suspend their activities under its Bangladesh operations.

“This letter is directing all USAID/Bangladesh implementing partners to immediately cease or suspend any work under your USAID/Bangladesh contract, work order, grant, cooperative agreement, or other assistance or acquisition instrument,” the letter read.

The abrupt decision raises concerns about the future of critical development projects in Bangladesh, including those focused on health, education, and poverty alleviation. Analysts suggest that the move may strain Washington’s ties with Dhaka and impact regional stability.

While India’s role in the unfolding situation remains unclear, Trump’s remark suggests a possible shift in diplomatic responsibilities in South Asia. The U.S. administration has yet to provide further details on the rationale behind the aid suspension or potential future engagements with Bangladesh.

Observers are closely monitoring the developments as the decision is expected to have far-reaching implications for U.S.-Bangladesh relations and the broader geopolitical landscape of the region.