Trump announces $19 billion for US farmers hurt by coronavirus

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Friday announced a $19 billion relief program to help farmers cope with the impact of the coronavirus pandemic through a package that will include direct payment and mass purchases of produce, meat and other products.

“These are great people, great Americans, never complain, never complain – they just do what they have to do,” Trump said while announcing the farm aid program, which he said will have $16 billion in direct payments.

US Department of Agriculture in a statement said it will partner with regional and local distributors to purchase $3 billion in fresh produce, dairy and meat.

The decision comes amid rising pressure from the US farm lobby for government purchases