The Trump administration has fired over 1,600 employees from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). It has also placed many staffers working outside the U.S. on paid administrative leave.
A message sent to affected employees stated: “I regret to inform you that you are affected by a Reduction in Force action.” the email which was sent to employees, confirmed that those employees would officially lose their jobs on April 24.
Only Essential Staff Remain at USAID
USAID has placed most of its employees on administrative leave. Only core leadership and critical personnel are still working. According to notices sent to employees, reviewed by the Associated Press, the agency stated:
“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.”
Trump and Musk Target USAID
This decision is part of President Donald Trump’s and Elon Musk’s broader effort to shrink the federal government. They aim to weaken USAID, a key agency responsible for distributing American foreign aid and strengthening U.S. influence abroad.
Foreign Aid Freeze
Immediately after taking office on January 20, Trump ordered a 90-day freeze on foreign aid. This halted funding for programs that fight hunger, disease, and displacement. While the administration allowed $5.3 billion in exemptions for security and counter-narcotics, USAID received less than $100 million. Before the freeze, the agency handled $40 billion annually.
Court Allows Layoffs to Proceed
A federal judge cleared the way for these mass layoffs. On Friday, U.S. District Judge Carl Nichols ruled in favor of the administration. He rejected a lawsuit from employees who wanted to temporarily block the job cuts. This ruling allowed the government to proceed with its plan to remove thousands of USAID staff in the U.S. and abroad.
