Zambia accuses the U.S. of linking a $2 billion health assistance deal to access to its rich mineral resources. Zambia’s foreign affairs minister calls the outgoing U.S. ambassador’s corruption allegations “mischievous” and “undiplomatic.” The U.S. aims to reshape aid to Africa into transactional agreements, while challenging China’s influence. Talks have stalled in Zambia over U.S. demands for data-sharing and preferential treatment for U.S. companies. Critics warn this approach risks creating a parallel global health system and using health as a bargaining chip. The U.S. says its strategy reduces donor dependency and promotes local ownership.