Former U.S. President Donald Trump mocked the African nation of Lesotho during a speech to Congress on Tuesday, calling it a country “nobody has ever heard of” as he defended deep cuts to foreign aid.
Trump mentioned Lesotho while listing past U.S. aid programs, specifically referencing an $8 million initiative supporting LGBTQI+ rights in the country. He struggled with the pronunciation before dismissing the small, landlocked nation, drawing laughter from Republican lawmakers. Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson were seen smiling behind him.
Lesotho, a constitutional monarchy entirely surrounded by South Africa, has one of the highest HIV/AIDS rates in the world. The U.S. has provided substantial funding for treatment and prevention efforts, contributing more than $630 million since 2006 through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). These efforts include providing medication and raising awareness among vulnerable groups facing stigma.
Beyond health initiatives, the U.S. signed a $300 million deal last year through the Millennium Challenge Corporation to support healthcare and agriculture in Lesotho. This program funds developing countries that meet democratic and governance standards.
Since returning to office, Trump’s administration has slashed more than 90% of U.S. foreign assistance, arguing that taxpayer money should be redirected domestically. Under the influence of South African-born billionaire Elon Musk, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has been effectively shut down.
Trump’s approach to Africa has been widely criticized. During his first term, he reportedly used offensive language to describe immigrants from African nations. His latest remarks reinforce his reputation for downplaying U.S. engagement with the continent.