In a significant shift, the Trump administration has placed the majority of employees at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) on administrative leave, effective from midnight on Sunday. This sweeping decision affects approximately 2,000 employees as part of what the Office of the Administrator termed a "reduction in force" outlined in an internal email obtained by CBS News. This development follows a legal battle after President Donald Trump's earlier plan to significantly reduce USAID staff was met with pushback, resulting in a federal judge's temporary halt to the initiative. However, this pause has now been ruled temporary, allowing the administration to forge ahead with its plans.
Trump Administration Shakes Up USAID: Thousands on Leave and Layoffs Announced
Trump Administration Shakes Up USAID: Thousands on Leave and Layoffs Announced
The Trump administration announces mass administrative leave and layoffs at USAID, raising concerns over the future of U.S. foreign aid.
The email also revealed that critical roles and designated personnel would be exempt from this mass leave; however, the number of exempt employees remains unclear. The administration intends to assist overseas staff with voluntary return travel, reflecting its commitment to reduce the agency's workforce. This latest effort is part of a broader strategy led by Trump and adviser Elon Musk, focusing on cutting federal costs and workforce. At a conservative event over the weekend, Trump reiterated his commitment to reduce USAID's influence, labeling the agency as a "left-wing scam."
As a result of these cuts, Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) has signed a lease to occupy significant space in the USAID's former headquarters, shifting the focus of federal resources. USAID historically employed around 10,000 individuals, with a significant number working abroad. Trump's funding freeze has already caused disruptions in humanitarian programs globally, leaving several countries wary of the U.S.'s reliability as a partner in aid. Former USAID administrator Gayle Smith criticized the cuts, emphasizing the potential message behind these actions could undermine global health and safety. As the freeze affects nearly fifty countries, experts are voicing alarm about the immediate consequences of what they see as a retreat from U.S. engagement in international assistance.
As a result of these cuts, Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) has signed a lease to occupy significant space in the USAID's former headquarters, shifting the focus of federal resources. USAID historically employed around 10,000 individuals, with a significant number working abroad. Trump's funding freeze has already caused disruptions in humanitarian programs globally, leaving several countries wary of the U.S.'s reliability as a partner in aid. Former USAID administrator Gayle Smith criticized the cuts, emphasizing the potential message behind these actions could undermine global health and safety. As the freeze affects nearly fifty countries, experts are voicing alarm about the immediate consequences of what they see as a retreat from U.S. engagement in international assistance.
