Trump administration moves to eliminate USAID entirely
- The U.S. Agency for International Development has been notified of plans to terminate most of its employees.
- The State Department will take over any remaining functions of USAID as part of a realignment of foreign assistance.
- Critics argue that the agency's closure could severely impact global humanitarian efforts and violate constitutional laws.
In the United States, the closure of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has been formally initiated by the Trump administration. A memorandum was issued on March 28, 2025, to Congress that stated the agency's remaining functions would be absorbed by the State Department. This action followed a series of layoffs affecting nearly all of the agency's approximately 900 employees, with termination notices planned for either July 1 or September 2. As the administration claims the agency has strayed from its original mission, there is a growing concern among critics regarding the loss of essential foreign assistance programs. The decision to dismantle USAID is part of a broader strategy to align foreign assistance with the Trump administration's priorities. Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned that previously, the agency had cost too much while providing meager results. The move represents a significant restructuring of U.S. foreign policy and aid strategies, as essential programs such as health care, education, and disaster relief will be transitioned to the State Department. Critics have raised concerns about this transfer, fearing a decrease in oversight and efficiency in vital aid programs that have historically supported some of the world's poorest populations. With the intended closure, the administration aims to streamline government operations in what it considers a fiscally responsible approach toward international aid. This significant reduction will involve terminating contracts and shifting programs that do not align with the current administration's objectives. Critics, including various lawmakers and aid advocates, have labeled this as a reckless dismantling of programs created to foster international support and cooperation. Moreover, a court ruling earlier this month indicated that actions taken to shutter USAID likely violated constitutional provisions. The implications of these changes could deeply affect global humanitarian efforts. While supporters argue that this reorganization could lead to more efficient aid distribution, opponents are alarmed at the prospect of essential services collapsing without adequate support. As the U.S. looks to modify its foreign aid strategy, the final outcomes of this transition remain uncertain, and congress may soon engage in further debates surrounding the legality and ethics of eliminating a federal agency dedicated to international development.