Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Feb 24: The Trump administration has announced the termination of over 1,600 employees at the US Agency for International Development (USAID), marking one of the most significant cuts to the federal workforce. Additionally, several USAID staffers stationed overseas have been placed on paid administrative leave.

In an email reviewed by Reuters, affected employees were informed of the layoffs, effective April 24. “I regret to inform you that you are affected by a reduction in force action,” the email stated. Only core leadership and personnel responsible for mission-critical functions will continue working.

The decision comes as part of President Donald Trump’s broader push to drastically reduce the size of the federal government, with the support of tech billionaire Elon Musk. The administration has been working to gut the six-decade-old agency, which has been a key player in delivering US foreign aid and strengthening diplomatic influence worldwide.

Following Trump’s executive order in January to freeze foreign aid for 90 days, USAID funding for humanitarian programs has been cut to less than $100 million, a sharp decline from the nearly $40 billion it previously managed annually. While exceptions amounting to $5.3 billion have been granted—primarily for security and counter-narcotics programs—most foreign assistance remains on hold.

The mass firings were given the legal go-ahead after US District Judge Carl Nichols ruled in favor of the administration on Friday, rejecting employee lawsuits aimed at halting the job cuts.

With USAID’s operations severely crippled, concerns are rising over the future of US global influence and humanitarian efforts, as the administration continues its push for a leaner government.