Lawmakers from both parties have raised concerns that China could emerge as a major beneficiary of international development efforts as the U.S. reassesses its foreign aid programs, leaving non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in limbo about the fate of critical funding.

On Thursday, an official from Cambodia’s demining authority revealed that he had received a notification to demobilize staff and operational teams funded by the U.S. government, starting March 1.

Calling the loss of American support a “critical situation,” the official noted that U.S.-backed demining efforts have been instrumental in clearing landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO)—a legacy of past conflicts.

The order to halt demining operations came via a January 26 email from the State Department, directing recipients to stop work immediately.

A State Department spokesperson confirmed to ABC News that all programs are currently under review, including the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement’s demining grants.

“Each program is undergoing a review with the goal of restructuring assistance to serve U.S. interests,” the spokesperson stated.

The decision to suspend demining aid marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, as the 2024 annual report from the Office of Weapons Removal and Abatement previously described the United States as the world’s “top supporter” of weapons destruction projects.

With American-funded programs now uncertain, concerns are growing that China could fill the void, expanding its influence in international development—especially in regions where U.S. engagement is now being scaled back.