The United Nations will halve its emergency aid budget request for 2026, seeking $23 billion to help 87 million people affected by wars and natural disasters, down from $47 billion in 2025. This drastic reduction follows significant funding cuts from the United States and European governments, forcing the organization to make tough decisions about which crises to prioritize. Humanitarian programs have already suffered, with food budgets slashed and health facilities closed in countries like Somalia and Afghanistan, leaving millions without essential services. The United Nations is now focusing its efforts on the most acute emergencies and plans to deliver more aid through local partners to reduce costs, while also seeking new sources of funding, including private sector donations. Despite these efforts, officials warn that the scale of need continues to outpace available resources, with conflicts in places like Gaza, Sudan, and Ukraine driving up civilian casualties and humanitarian needs.