The Trump administration has fired more than 1,600 employees of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) while putting many others on paid administrative leave. The move is part of President Donald Trump’s broader plan to cut government spending and reduce foreign aid programs.
USAID Job Cuts Announced
On Sunday, the Trump administration confirmed that 1,600 USAID employees are being dismissed. Many workers stationed outside the United States have been placed on indefinite paid leave.
Employees received official emails informing them of the layoffs. “I regret to inform you that you are affected by a Reduction in Force action,” stated one of the notices reviewed by Reuters. Those who received the notification will officially lose their jobs on April 24, 2025.
Who Remains at USAID?
According to the administration, only key leadership and critical staff will continue working at USAID.
“As of 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, February 23, 2025, all USAID direct hire personnel, with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership, and/or specially designated programs, will be placed on administrative leave globally,” stated an official notice viewed by The Associated Press.
Trump and Musk's Push to Cut USAID
The decision to cut jobs at USAID is one of the biggest steps in Trump’s plan to reduce the size of the federal government. Business tycoon Elon Musk, a supporter of cost-cutting efforts, has also backed the move.
USAID has been a key agency for delivering American foreign aid, helping to combat hunger, diseases, and humanitarian crises worldwide. However, Trump and his allies argue that the agency’s budget should be significantly reduced.
Trump’s Plan to End USAID Funding
Shortly after taking office on January 20, 2025, Trump announced a 90-day pause on all foreign aid. This decision halted funding for programs supporting food security, health care, and refugee assistance worldwide.
Some exceptions have been made. The administration approved $5.3 billion in funding for security and counter-narcotics programs. However, USAID received less than $100 million in exemptions, a huge cut from its usual $40 billion annual budget.
Court Ruling Allows Layoffs to Proceed
On Friday, a federal judge allowed Trump’s administration to proceed with the USAID layoffs. US District Judge Carl Nichols dismissed a lawsuit from employees that sought to block the job cuts. This ruling paved the way for the government to continue its foreign aid freeze and job reductions.
Impact of USAID Cuts
The job cuts and funding freeze will significantly impact global aid programs. USAID has played a crucial role in disaster relief, disease prevention, and economic development in many countries. Critics argue that these cuts could harm US influence abroad and weaken America’s global leadership.
As Trump pushes forward with his agenda, the future of USAID and American foreign aid remains uncertain. The administration’s decision to fire 1,600 employees marks a major shift in US international policy.
