By Washington, D.C. – The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced that thousands of its employees will be placed on leave starting Friday night, as the Trump administration moves forward with sweeping budget cuts targeting government-funded programs.
In a statement released on Tuesday, USAID confirmed that all “direct-hire personnel” will be affected, except for those working on mission-critical functions, core leadership roles, and specially designated programs. The agency, which provides humanitarian aid to more than 100 countries, employs approximately 10,000 staff members worldwide, with two-thirds stationed overseas, according to the Congressional Research Service.
The decision follows a series of aggressive budget cuts implemented by President Donald Trump since returning to office last month. His administration has taken a hard stance on reducing foreign assistance, arguing that USAID wastes taxpayer money and should align more closely with White House policy priorities. The move comes as part of a broader restructuring effort that includes a reported merger of USAID into the U.S. Department of State.
Impact on Global Aid and USAID Operations
The announcement has sparked widespread concern, particularly among humanitarian organizations and Democratic lawmakers, who argue that halting USAID operations will have devastating consequences on vulnerable populations worldwide.
USAID has played a crucial role in delivering aid to conflict zones, responding to public health emergencies, and supporting economic development initiatives. The agency’s projects range from providing prosthetic limbs to Ukrainian soldiers to clearing landmines in war-torn regions and combatting Ebola outbreaks in Africa.
Trump’s earlier decision to freeze foreign aid funding has already disrupted aid flows to several countries, including Syria and Afghanistan. The latest move to place thousands of USAID employees on administrative leave is expected to further destabilize global aid efforts and undermine U.S. diplomatic influence abroad.
It remains unclear how USAID will manage the withdrawal of its overseas personnel, particularly those working in high-risk conflict areas. The agency has stated that it will coordinate with the State Department to arrange and finance the return of affected staff members within the next month.
Political and Legal Controversy Over USAID Cuts
The Trump administration’s decision to gut USAID funding has ignited political backlash, particularly from Democratic lawmakers who argue that such drastic measures are unconstitutional and violate congressional oversight.
On Tuesday, New Jersey Senator Andy Kim, a former USAID staffer, took to social media to criticize the move, stating that “USAID is a foreign policy tool with bipartisan origins that is critical in this dangerous global environment. Gutting it means gutting our ability to compete and keep America safe.”
Concerns have also been raised over whether the White House has the legal authority to unilaterally dismantle USAID without Congressional approval. Some Democrats have labeled the reported merger of USAID into the State Department as an illegal power grab, while Republican allies of Trump have defended the cuts as a necessary move to reduce government spending.
The controversy deepened earlier this week when Senator Marco Rubio was appointed as the acting head of USAID, fueling speculation that the agency’s role will be permanently diminished or absorbed into the State Department.
Meanwhile, billionaire entrepreneur Elon Musk, who was recently appointed to lead a new government cost-cutting agency, has openly advocated for USAID’s complete shutdown, calling it “beyond repair.” His comments have further intensified concerns about the future of U.S. foreign assistance.
What Happens Next?
As part of the transition, USAID staff received an internal email on Tuesday, informing them that they were being placed on paid administrative leave. Employees were instructed to remain available by phone and email during business hours but were barred from entering USAID offices.
Additionally, the agency has set a deadline of Thursday, 15:00 EDT (20:00 GMT) for notifying employees who qualify as exceptions and will continue working.
In its official statement, USAID concluded with a simple message: “Thank you for your service.”
The move to dismantle USAID and cut billions in foreign aid marks one of the most significant policy shifts under Trump’s second term, raising concerns about America’s global leadership and its commitment to humanitarian efforts worldwide.
