In a surprising move, the Trump administration has told groups in other countries to halt the distribution of H.I.V. medications funded by U.S. aid. This decision has left many patients in low-income nations without access to life-saving treatments, even when the drugs are already in local clinics ready to be handed out.

This directive is part of a larger freeze on foreign aid that began last week. It affects the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), a program started by George W. Bush that has saved over 25 million lives worldwide. Funding to clinics, hospitals, and other organizations in these countries has already been stopped, leaving many struggling to cope.

Patients are now being turned away from appointments, and treatments have been abruptly interrupted. Those familiar with the situation say people on the ground are confused and anxious, as most federal officials have been ordered not to communicate with external partners. The lack of guidance has only added to the chaos.

Adding to the uncertainty, U.S. officials have also been instructed to stop offering technical support to national health ministries. This move has thrown a wrench into efforts to manage the crisis effectively.

The situation highlights the critical role PEPFAR has played in fighting H.I.V. globally. With its systems now offline, many worry the program may not fully recover, leaving millions vulnerable. For now, those depending on these medications are left in limbo, unsure of what comes next.