The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is facing an unprecedented shake-up under President Donald Trump’s administration. According to sources, the government plans to retain only 294 employees out of the agency’s 10,000-strong workforce worldwide.
This drastic move, which is part of a broader reorganization effort, is expected to have severe consequences for global humanitarian aid efforts.
A Devastating Blow to USAID’s Global Impact
USAID, which has long been at the forefront of providing humanitarian assistance in over 130 countries, will see its operations significantly crippled. Only 12 staff members will remain in the Africa bureau and just eight in the Asia bureau, leaving countless life-saving programs in jeopardy.
J. Brian Atwood, a former USAID administrator, described the move as “outrageous” and warned that the agency’s dismantling could cost millions of lives. “A lot of people will not survive,” he stated, emphasizing the critical role USAID has played in fighting poverty, disease, and famine worldwide.
Trump and Musk Target USAID Staff
The cuts come as part of a government restructuring initiative led by billionaire Elon Musk, a close Trump ally. The administration has accused USAID employees of corruption, leading to widespread dismissals and unpaid leave for many staff members. The State Department, which oversees USAID, has yet to issue an official statement on the matter.
On Tuesday, the administration announced that all directly hired USAID employees globally would be placed on administrative leave, with thousands of overseas personnel recalled. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that some essential programs might be exempted, but no clear guidelines have been provided.
Financial Struggles and Uncertainty
With many USAID programs now in limbo, partner organizations that rely on agency funding are facing severe financial hardship. The uncertainty surrounding these programs threatens ongoing efforts to prevent disease outbreaks, address food insecurity, and provide disaster relief.
USAID managed over $40 billion in funding in 2023, but with this new wave of layoffs, the future of these resources remains unclear. Sources indicate that some USAID employees have already received termination notices, further fueling concerns about the agency’s ability to function effectively.
Plans to Merge USAID with the State Department
The Trump administration has expressed its intent to merge USAID with the State Department, led by Marco Rubio, who has also been named the acting USAID administrator. However, legal experts argue that such a merger would require congressional approval, as USAID was established and funded by specific laws.
With USAID’s global reach significantly diminished, the consequences will be felt in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions. Countries like Ukraine, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Yemen, which have historically received substantial aid from the agency, may now struggle to secure the necessary support.
As the international community watches closely, the fate of thousands of USAID employees—and the millions they serve—hangs in the balance.
