UNAIDS director proposes that President Trump make an 'amazing deal' to end HIV

UNAIDS Sounds Alarm Over US Funding Cuts, Proposes “Deal” to Combat HIV

GENEVA — The head of the UN agency for AIDS has stated that the abrupt cessation of financial support from the United States is having a “devastating” effect on global efforts to eradicate HIV, potentially leading to increased fatalities among the world’s most vulnerable populations. However, she also presented a “remarkable proposal” for U.S. President Donald Trump, suggesting it could pave the way for “the end of AIDS.”

Strategic Proposal Involves HIV Prevention Drug Lenacapavir

Speaking at a press briefing in Geneva, UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima outlined a plan that would involve President Trump enabling the U.S.-based pharmaceutical company Gilead to manufacture and license its groundbreaking HIV prevention drug, lenacapavir, for global distribution to millions in need.

Lenacapavir, marketed as Sunlenca, has demonstrated near-complete effectiveness in preventing HIV infection with twice-yearly injections in women, and comparable efficacy in men.

Appeal to Trump’s Deal-Making Approach

“President Trump appreciates deal-making,” Byanyima noted, acknowledging the groundwork laid by President George W. Bush, who initiated widespread access to HIV medications over two decades prior.

“It could be President Trump, or another Republican leader, who spearheads the prevention revolution towards eliminating AIDS,” Byanyima asserted.

She emphasized that this agreement would not only generate revenue for Gilead and create American jobs but also avert millions of deaths in developing nations.

Funding Shortfall and its Global Impact

Byanyima revealed that U.S. contributions constituted approximately 35% of UNAIDS’ core budget in the preceding year. The potential reinstatement of this funding for the upcoming year remains uncertain. She indicated ongoing discussions with the U.S. government while also preparing for a contingency where U.S. funding is unavailable.

She expressed skepticism about other nations’ capacity to compensate for this deficit, noting that European donors have signaled intentions to diminish their contributions, redirecting funds towards defense and other pressing needs.

Projected Increase in Deaths and Infections

Byanyima warned that without renewed support for HIV initiatives, projections indicate a potential surge of over 6.3 million additional deaths in the next four years, alongside 2,000 new infections daily.

Reassessing HIV Aid Delivery

Acknowledging valid criticisms surrounding the existing methods of HIV aid distribution, Byanyima framed this as “an opportunity to re-evaluate and develop more effective approaches to delivering crucial, life-saving assistance.”

African Nations Strive for Self-Reliance

Byanyima further commented on the increasing efforts by African nations to achieve self-sufficiency in healthcare. She highlighted that even the most economically challenged countries are endeavoring to “stretch very weak, fragile health systems to accommodate individuals living with HIV.”