Washington, Jan 21 (V7N)— Hours after being sworn in as US president, Donald Trump has signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), fulfilling a long-standing promise. The move was reported by the BBC on Tuesday, marking a significant step in Trump's renewed presidency.

The executive order cites the WHO's "mismanagement of the COVID-19 pandemic" and its "failure to implement urgently needed reforms" as key reasons for the withdrawal. Trump also criticised the organisation for demanding "unfairly high payments" from the United States while accusing China of underpaying its share.

This decision is consistent with Trump’s earlier actions against the WHO. In 2020, during his first term, he criticised the organisation's handling of the pandemic and formally initiated steps to withdraw US membership.

Analysts warn that this move could weaken the United States' position as a global health leader and hinder international cooperation on public health crises.

In addition to the WHO withdrawal, President Trump has also signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the Paris Climate Agreement, underscoring his administration's focus on reversing prior global commitments.

This latest action highlights Trump’s emphasis on reshaping US participation in international organisations and agreements, in line with his "America First" agenda.

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