The Trump administration plans to reduce staff at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to fewer than 300, significantly downsizing from its global workforce of over 10,000, sources told Reuters. The move is part of a broader government reorganization effort, reportedly influenced by businessman Elon Musk, a close ally of Trump.
Only 294 employees will retain their positions, including 12 in the Africa bureau and eight in the Asia bureau. Critics warn the cuts could cripple USAID’s humanitarian efforts, which provide life-saving aid to millions worldwide. J. Brian Atwood, a former USAID head, called the layoffs "outrageous," warning that the agency’s collapse would have dire consequences for global poverty and disease prevention.
The administration has already placed dozens of USAID staff on leave and terminated hundreds of contractors. On Tuesday, officials announced that all directly hired USAID employees would be placed on administrative leave, with thousands of overseas personnel recalled. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that some critical programs may be exempt from the stop-work orders, but uncertainty remains.
The Trump administration aims to merge USAID with the State Department, but congressional approval is required. USAID managed over $40 billion in aid for 130 countries in 2023, with top recipients including Ukraine, Ethiopia, Jordan, and Afghanistan.
Sources say termination notices have already been sent, with the USAID website confirming global administrative leave for most employees starting February 7. Essential personnel will be notified separately. The drastic cuts leave humanitarian efforts in limbo, putting critical global aid programs at risk.