Tuberculosis services are gradually recovering after the disruption of the COVID-19 pandemic, but sudden funding cuts by the G7 countries threaten the progress made. These cuts are having an impact on the global response to tuberculosis, especially in countries with a high burden of the disease. At the same time, however, they offer an opportunity for a shift towards a fairer, more resilient and self-sufficient response to TB, which should be led by high-burden countries. International reductions in health aid can lead to greater autonomy and responsibility in the fight against tuberculosis. This shift may contribute to the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of anti-tuberculosis measures.