USAID Employees Face Leave as Trump Administration Pushes for Agency Cuts

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) prepares to place thousands of its employees on leave, amidst controversial funding cuts initiated by the Trump administration, which critics warn could severely threaten humanitarian aid worldwide.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is set to place a substantial number of its staff on leave starting Friday night, according to an announcement on the agency's website. All “direct-hire personnel” will be affected by the decision, with exceptions made only for those involved in “mission-critical functions,” leadership, and certain designated programs. This move marks a continuation of the funding cuts that President Donald Trump has enacted since his recent return to office.

Critics of the decision warn that this shuttering could have dire consequences for humanitarian programs that help vulnerable populations globally. USAID, which provides assistance to over 100 countries, relies on its workforce of approximately 10,000 people, with two-thirds stationed overseas, as reported by the Congressional Research Service.

Many employees received an email notifying them of being placed on paid administrative leave, but they must remain “available” via phone and email during business hours while being barred from entering agency facilities. As part of this plan, the USAID will coordinate with the State Department to facilitate the return of its personnel currently working abroad within the month.

The reduction of funding towards USAID aligns with broader financial strategies adopted by Trump and his allies to trim government expenditures. Following the shifts within the agency, Secretary of State Marco Rubio became the acting head of USAID, resulting in this government agency being merged with another. Prominent figures, including Elon Musk, who is tasked with identifying spending cuts for the U.S. government, have criticized USAID, suggesting it should be disbanded altogether.

The ramifications of completely closing down USAID are profound, as the agency plays a crucial role in various operations, from aiding wounded soldiers in Ukraine to combating Ebola in Africa. Democratic lawmakers have responded vehemently against the administration's decision, emphasizing that cutting funds to a historically bipartisan agency could undermine national security and U.S. global standing.

Founded in 1961, USAID works in over 60 countries and has managed fiscal operations worth more than $40 billion in 2023. By drawing attention to these impending changes, the dialogue surrounding the future of USAID and its crucial humanitarian role remains a focal point in U.S. politics.