In this episode, we speak with Dr. Austin Strange about the shifting landscape of global development aid following the Trump administration’s executive order pausing USAID for review. The conversation explores why Chinese development aid has become a central feature of global development finance, which countries it targets, and how it supports Beijing’s broader soft-power strategy. We also discuss recent adjustments in China’s aid approach, the implications for countries with deep historical ties to U.S. assistance—such as Laos—and how the suspension of USAID programs affects America’s global reputation and influence.