NewsDesk Your trusted news source
US President Donald Trump has initiated a massive dismissal of USAID employees, potentially affecting thousands of jobs.
According to USAID, approximately 1,600 personnel in the US will be impacted, while all direct hire personnel globally, except those in critical functions or leadership, will be placed on administrative leave.
USAID will provide fully funded flights for overseas personnel and maintain access to agency systems and diplomatic channels until their return.
This move follows Elon Musk’s statement on February 2, labeling USAID a “criminal organization” that needs to be shut down. Musk claimed Trump agreed to close USAID, with the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) stating they were already in the process of doing so.
Trump’s determination to reduce governance costs is cited as the reason behind this decision.
The USAID dismissals are part of a broader effort to cut spending and streamline government operations, with Trump establishing the U.S. DOGE Service Temporary Organization under Elon Musk to achieve these goals.
