The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has officially announced the start of mass layoffs following a decision by President Donald Trump’s administration. These measures could result in thousands of employees losing their jobs.
According to a statement published on the agency’s website, “the entire USAID workforce, except for staff performing critical functions, key leadership, and personnel involved in designated programs, will be placed on administrative leave worldwide. Simultaneously, approximately 1,600 employees working in the U.S. will be laid off.”
For dismissed employees stationed abroad, USAID will organize a fully funded flight program to facilitate their return home. Until their departure, they will have access to agency resources and diplomatic channels.
Earlier, the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Elon Musk, stated that U.S. government employees would be required to provide a weekly report on their work or resign.
On February 2, Musk called USAID a “criminal organization”, asserting that it “must cease to exist”, and added that Donald Trump supports shutting down the agency. According to him, the process is already underway.
Amid the suspension of USAID funding, acting agency head Marco Rubio announced that authorities would conduct a comprehensive review of its operations. Based on the results, funding for some initiatives may be reinstated or increased.
