Photo Credit: The New York Times

United States President, Donald Trump, has announced that he is terminating the country’s relationship with the World Health Organization (WHO).

“China has total control over the World Health Organization,” the president said while announcing measures aimed at punishing Beijing.

“We will be today terminating our relationship with the World Health Organization and directing those funds” to other global public health charities, Mr Trump said in the White House Rose Garden.

“The world is now suffering as a result of the malfeasance of the Chinese government,” he said.

Washington will redirect funds to other bodies, he said.

The  World Health Organisation works with governments, other health organizations, foundations, professional associations, the UN and other bodies to combat diseases globally. It helps direct and coordinate international health responses and systems, including preparing, monitoring and responding to pandemics and other health issues. It also helps monitor and coordinate vaccine development.

The US is the global health agency’s largest single contributor, providing more than $400m (£324m; €360m) in funds in 2019.