The Trump administration is immediately releasing $600 million in frozen funds to Gavi, the global vaccine alliance, after the organization committed to transitioning away from mercury-containing vaccines. The funding was withheld in June 2025 by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over unproven safety concerns. The U.S., which previously provided 13% of Gavi's budget, expects to resume its board seat while conditioning future aid on performance and reform implementation.
U.S. frozen GAVI funds release
- ▪U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated in June 2026 that the United States should re-engage with Gavi, citing congressional concerns and global health goals.
- ▪The Trump administration announced on July 29, 2026, the immediate release of $600 million in congressionally appropriated funds for Gavi.
Kennedy thimerosal safety concerns
- ▪U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. withheld Gavi funding in June 2025 over unsubstantiated safety concerns regarding mercury-based preservatives in vaccines.
- ▪Anti-vaccine groups claim thimerosal, a mercury-based preservative used in vaccines, is linked to neurodevelopmental disorders, despite studies showing no safety issues.
GAVI mercury-free vaccine transition
- ▪The U.S. State Department released the $600 million after Gavi committed to transitioning away from mercury-containing vaccines and expanding mercury-free alternatives.
- ▪Gavi Chief Executive Sania Nishtar stated in June 2026 that Gavi was moving away from vaccines containing a mercury-based preservative.
GAVI budget cuts impact
- ▪The United States previously contributed approximately 13% of Gavi's funding before halting its annual contribution of around $300 million.
- ▪Gavi implemented cost-cutting measures to address funding shortfalls caused by the U.S. funding halt and cuts from other high-income nations.
U.S. board re-engagement conditions
- ▪The U.S. State Department announced on July 29, 2026, that the United States expects to resume its place on the Gavi board.
- ▪The United States will evaluate future support to Gavi based on demonstrated performance, accountability, and the implementation of reforms.
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