RASC News Agency: The Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA) has announced the immediate suspension of all activities funded by U.S. financial aid for a period of 85 days, following a directive from the U.S. State Department issued in compliance with an executive order signed by President Donald Trump. According to the statement, this directive has led to the cessation of NPA’s demining operations, which were previously supported by the United States across 12 countries, including Afghanistan.
The Norwegian People’s Aid underscored the vital role of mine clearance in poverty reduction, enhancing security, fostering economic growth, and ensuring long-term stability. The organization warned that landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) continue to pose a grave threat to civilian lives, livelihoods, and post-conflict reconstruction efforts for decades after hostilities cease. As outlined in the statement, NPA’s demining activities have now been suspended not only in Afghanistan but also in 11 other nations, including Angola, Cambodia, Iraq, Kosovo, Laos, Palau, Peru, Tajikistan, Ukraine, Vietnam, and Yemen. The organization further highlighted that in 2023 alone, landmines and cluster munitions resulted in 7,000 casualties worldwide.
The Norwegian People’s Aid stated that it is awaiting further clarification from U.S. authorities regarding the broader implications of this suspension on its staff, partners, and ongoing projects. Expressing hope for continued international collaboration, NPA called on the incoming U.S. administration to recognize the critical importance of demining efforts and engage with American officials and other affected stakeholders to ensure the resumption of operations aimed at creating mine-free and secure communities worldwide.
