Recent reports reveal that at least 56 senior officials from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have been put on administrative leave with full pay and benefits. This action comes in the midst of an investigation into alleged resistance to President Donald Trump's directives.
Following an executive order by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, a 90-day pause has been implemented on all U.S. foreign assistance funded through the State Department and USAID. This pause has resulted in the suspension of numerous humanitarian, development, and security programs worldwide, leading to layoffs within aid organizations.
The new acting administrator of USAID, Jason Gray, identified actions within the agency that were perceived to circumvent the President's executive orders. As a result, the officials in question have been placed on leave pending further analysis.
It is worth noting that the affected officials are career employees who have served under various administrations, including President Trump's. Prior to their removal, these officials were working to assist U.S.-funded aid organizations in navigating the funding freeze and securing waivers for critical activities.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has exempted emergency food programs and military aid to Israel and Egypt from the foreign assistance freeze. President Trump has been vocal about his concerns regarding foreign aid and has called for a review of U.S. aid programs to prioritize American interests.
In fiscal year 2023, the U.S. dispersed $72 billion in assistance, making it the largest global aid donor. Additionally, the U.S. provided 42% of all humanitarian aid monitored by the United Nations in 2024.
