USAID Faces Drastic Workforce Reduction Amid Trump Administration Changes

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, center right, walks with Edwin F. Lopez, the attaché for DHS Homeland Security Investigations, as they walk toward a Venezuelan government airplane that Rubio anno

Forced leaves have commenced for most employees of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in Washington and globally, following Trump administration orders that have significantly reduced the agency's workforce and U.S.-funded aid programs. The administration's plan aims to retain fewer than 300 workers out of the thousands previously employed by USAID.

Current and former USAID officials revealed that the agency is undergoing substantial cuts, reducing its workforce from over 8,000 direct hires and contractors to a minimal number. Additionally, approximately 5,000 locally hired employees abroad are also affected by these changes.

It remains uncertain whether the reduction to 300 employees will be permanent or temporary, pending a review by the administration to determine which aid and development programs will continue. Overseas USAID staff have been given 30 days to return to the U.S., with the government covering their travel and moving expenses. Those opting to stay longer may have to bear their own costs unless granted a hardship waiver.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized that the U.S. will continue providing foreign aid aligned with national interests, despite the restructuring. The Trump administration, in collaboration with Elon Musk's Department of Government Efficiency, has prioritized budget cuts, particularly targeting USAID.

Trump administration aims to retain fewer than 300 workers out of thousands at USAID.

USAID employees globally on forced leave due to significant workforce reductions.

Agency undergoing substantial cuts, reducing workforce from over 8,000 to minimal numbers.

Approximately 5,000 locally hired employees abroad also affected by cuts.

Uncertainty remains whether reduction to 300 employees will be permanent or temporary.

Since President Trump's inauguration, a funding freeze has halted most of USAID's global programs, placing the majority of its employees on administrative leave. There are discussions about potentially integrating surviving programs under the State Department, a move contested by Democratic lawmakers and others as requiring congressional approval.

Lawsuits filed by the American Foreign Service Association and the American Federation of Government Employees seek to reverse the closures, reopen USAID buildings, reinstate employees, and restore funding. The legal action argues that the administration's actions have severe repercussions for American workers, global populations, and U.S. national interests.

These developments mark a significant shift in U.S. foreign aid policies and the future of USAID's operations, prompting legal challenges and concerns about the impact on humanitarian efforts worldwide.