US Withdraws from WHO Over COVID-19 Response Criticisms

The United States has formally withdrawn from the World Health Organization, criticizing its response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The US accused the WHO of failing to implement critical reforms and being influenced by member states like China.

The decision to withdraw began in January 2025, with the US gradually halting funding and redirecting resources. The White House criticized the WHO for delays in declaring a global health emergency and downplaying the risks of asymptomatic transmission.

The US also raised concerns about the origin of COVID-19, dismissing the possibility of a laboratory creation despite China's lack of transparency.