Should a country’s first responsibility be to help its own citizens or to help people in need around the world?

I believe a country's greatest responsibility is helping its own population for many reasons.

For example, because they've been chosen to protect their citizens. Many countries hold general elections, selecting leadership from the majority's vote, meaning parties must help. While supplying international aid can eventually be beneficial (alliances), less money will be available for citizens, meaning it doesn't initially help the doner's country. Therefore, governments should prioritise their own citizens, spending their funds on improving their country, not others.

Additionally, prioritising other countries can harm them. If soldiers are donated, there will be less for their own country, creating a weaker position. During WW2, the Nazis fought both sides of Europe, splitting their army, leading to their eventual demise. Countries giving aid could fall into similar positions, as they won't have full militaries. Ergo, it's important governments focus on their own countries, or occupations could occur.

Furthermore, aiding others could create unrealistic expectations and poor relationships: if one country receives aid, more may expect it, but the benefactor may no longer be able to afford it. This could create strained relationships - harming trade - and pressure from others, causing unpopularity. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the UK has provided £13 billion in military support. However, following Israel's invasion of Gaza, no military aid has been sent, as Hamas are classed as terrorists. Nevertheless, due to the violent tactics of Israel, many believe military aid must be sent to help Palestinians. Other aid has been sent, but many are unhappy because of the differences between Ukraine and Palestine's treatment, pressurizing the government. This proves that rules around aid must remain consistent to avoid complications.

Someone may disagree because aid is given when necessary. Without aid, people may be stuck in deadly conditions, making donations crucial to save lives. Therefore, countries in stable positions have a higher responsibility of helping others. However, I disagree with this as, though aid is important, governments should protect their country first, as if all resources go elsewhere there will be none for their own country, creating struggles. Moreover, the money was generated by people living in the doner country, so they should receive benefits themselves.

Overall, countries should help each other, as it promotes equality and saves lives. However, a country's main responsibility is helping its own citizens, as the government has been elected to help them and they generate the money.