United Nations slashes funding appeal as aid plunges

The United Nations on Monday announced a 2026 aid appeal that is only half the size of this year’s target, reflecting a sharp decline in donor funding even as global humanitarian needs reach unprecedented levels. Acknowledging the shortfall, the U.N. said its $23 billion request will inevitably leave tens of millions of people without assistance, as dwindling support has forced agencies to focus solely on those in the most critical need. France24 International Affairs Editor Leela Jacinto shares her insights.