Peter Yeo, President of the Better World Campaign, released the following statement on the bipartisan, bicameral agreement on the FY26 State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs (SFOPS) appropriations bill:
Congress provided nearly full funding for the United Nations regular budget and UN peacekeeping in this bill, allowing President Trump’s Administration to fund those parts of the UN that continue to enjoy its support after last week’s UN related Executive Order.
We commend House and Senate Appropriations leadership from both parties for working together to protect America’s seat at the table and ensure continued support for the international institutions that help prevent conflict, respond to humanitarian crises and advance U.S. interests around the world. This bipartisan bill sends a clear message that U.S. leadership at the UN and strategic investments in global engagement remain essential to America’s national security, economic strength and global influence.
“This bipartisan bill sends a clear message that U.S. leadership at the UN and strategic investments in global engagement remain essential to America’s global influence.”
The FY26 SFOPS bill provides $50 billion for U.S. international engagement, including $9.4 billion for global health. These investments ensure the United States can meet its treaty obligations, remain fully engaged in the UN system and continue shaping global standards on security, development and humanitarian response.
While no compromise is perfect, this deal preserves critical funding, reinforces the partnership between the Executive Branch and Congress on foreign assistance and helps ensure the U.S. meets its legal obligation under the UN Charter.
At a time when strategic competitors are eager to weaken international institutions and expand their own influence, Congress has chosen to reaffirm America’s leadership role. We urge swift passage of this bipartisan compromise ahead of the January 30 funding deadline. The United States is stronger, safer and more influential when it leads, including at the United Nations.
“At a time when strategic competitors are eager to weaken international institutions and expand their own influence, Congress has chosen to reaffirm America’s leadership role.”
Media Contact: Kathryn Kross | kkross@unfoundation.org | 202-887-9040 ext 8577
