The Trump administration is reviewing proposals to spend millions of dollars on wildlife protection projects abroad, including up to $50 million to help protect polar bears in Greenland and $25 million for snow leopards in Nepal. The plans, according to reports, appear to contrast with President Donald Trump’s “America First” approach, which has often focused on cutting foreign aid and environmental funding.
Documents reviewed by The Washington Post and sources familiar with the matter indicate that the proposals are part of a broader foreign assistance package under discussion. The funding would support wildlife preservation and climate adaptation programs in Arctic and Asian regions affected by rising temperatures and habitat loss.
Officials within the administration have described the proposals as part of U.S. global environmental commitments. However, critics see a contradiction between this and the Trump administration’s past efforts to scale back humanitarian and conservation aid. In previous budgets, the White House pushed to reduce spending on foreign environmental projects, arguing that funds should prioritize domestic needs.
Environmental experts say the proposed funding for polar bears and snow leopards could make a significant difference in species conservation. Both animals face serious threats from climate change, poaching, and habitat destruction. However, uncertainty remains about whether these proposals will survive internal budget reviews or political scrutiny.
Some analysts view the move as an attempt to balance environmental responsibility with strategic diplomacy. Greenland and Nepal are seen as key regions in U.S. foreign policy, where environmental cooperation could help strengthen relationships.
If approved, the funding would mark a rare moment where the Trump administration invests heavily in international wildlife protection despite its reputation for cutting global aid.
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