The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has announced that thousands of its employees will be placed on leave starting Friday night as part of sweeping changes to the agency’s operations.
In a statement posted on its website, USAID confirmed that the decision would affect all “direct-hire personnel,” except those assigned to “mission-critical functions, core leadership, and specially designated programs.” However, it remains unclear which specific roles will be impacted. Affected employees were set to receive official notifications by Thursday afternoon.
The move aligns with the Trump administration’s broader push to cut foreign aid spending, with officials arguing that USAID needs to be restructured to fit the president’s policy agenda. These changes have sparked backlash from agency staff and Democratic lawmakers, who warn that reducing USAID’s reach could endanger lives and undermine national security.
Trump’s previous decision to freeze foreign assistance has already disrupted global aid efforts, with significant consequences for countries relying on U.S. support. USAID, which has been operational since 1961, provides humanitarian aid to over 100 countries and employs roughly 10,000 people worldwide—two-thirds of whom are stationed overseas, according to the Congressional Research Service.
The agency operates on an annual budget of around $40 billion, representing approximately 0.6% of total federal spending. In its Tuesday statement, USAID said it would coordinate with the State Department to facilitate the return of personnel posted abroad within the next 30 days. Those exempted from the directive were expected to receive confirmation by 3:00 PM EDT (8:00 PM GMT) on Thursday.
The announcement concluded with a simple message: “Thank you for your service.”
Concerns Over USAID Staff in Conflict Zones
One pressing concern is how USAID employees working in conflict zones will be withdrawn. Many of the agency’s programs involve direct support to vulnerable communities, including clearing landmines, distributing medical aid, and combating the spread of diseases such as Ebola.
These cuts are part of a broader effort to streamline government agencies following Trump’s return to office, reportedly in coordination with Elon Musk’s unofficial Department of Government Efficiency.
Haiti and Other Countries Affected by Aid Freeze
Haiti is among the nations impacted by the freeze, with the United Nations confirming that the U.S. has halted $13.3 million in aid destined for the country. However, on Wednesday, the State Department issued a waiver allowing $40.7 million in foreign assistance to continue flowing to Haiti’s national police and a UN-backed security mission.
Meanwhile, the White House has defended its budget cuts, citing examples of what it considers wasteful spending. Among the projects listed were a $1.5 million grant to an LGBTQ group in Serbia and $2.5 million allocated for electric vehicles in Vietnam.
Controversy Over USAID’s Future
Critics have strongly opposed the administration’s efforts to scale back or shut down USAID, arguing that such moves constitute an unprecedented power grab. Some have pointed to Musk’s involvement in government restructuring as particularly controversial, given his status as an unelected billionaire.
As part of these changes, Senator Marco Rubio, a key Trump ally, has been appointed acting head of USAID, amid reports that the agency is being merged into the State Department. However, completely dissolving USAID would require congressional approval.
On Tuesday, USAID employees received an internal email informing them that they had been placed on paid administrative leave. The email, obtained by BBC News, instructed staff to remain reachable via phone and email during work hours but barred them from entering USAID buildings.
Musk has been vocal about his stance on the agency, stating that it is “beyond repair” and should be shut down entirely. However, aid organizations and policymakers have warned that dismantling USAID would have devastating consequences for global humanitarian efforts.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
Many fear that USAID’s downsizing will leave millions of vulnerable people without essential support. The agency funds numerous critical programs, from providing prosthetic limbs to injured soldiers in Ukraine to supplying HIV medication in Africa.
One HIV patient in Nigeria shared her concerns with BBC News, explaining that she relies on USAID-funded anti-retroviral drugs.
“I am really scared about what the future holds,” she said. “I got my last set of HIV drugs in November and I am supposed to go back in April… but I don’t know what will happen by then. These free drugs are crucial for me and many others. If they are affected, we will be in serious trouble.”
Lawmakers Push Back
Democratic lawmakers have strongly criticized the administration’s handling of USAID, calling the restructuring effort both illegal and unconstitutional.
New Jersey Senator Andy Kim, who previously worked at the agency, emphasized its importance in global affairs.
“USAID is a vital foreign policy tool with bipartisan origins. In this dangerous global environment, gutting it means gutting our ability to compete and keep America safe,” Kim wrote on social media.
While Trump’s administration moves forward with its restructuring plans, opposition from Congress and international partners suggests that the fate of USAID remains uncertain.
SOURCE: BBC
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