Trump fires 1,600 USAID workers, puts thousand others on leave

Trump USAID layoffs have been officially announced, with the Trump administration confirming a significant workforce reduction at the US Agency for International Development (USAID). According to an official notice, nearly 1,600 USAID employees in the United States will be laid off, while thousands more worldwide will be placed on administrative leave.

In an internal email to USAID employees, the Office of the Administrator confirmed the layoffs. The message described the move as a “reduction in force” effort aimed at restructuring the agency. The BBC reported that this decision follows Trump’s earlier attempts to dismiss thousands of USAID staff, though legal battles had delayed those plans.

A federal judge had previously blocked the Trump administration from completely dismantling USAID. However, on Friday, the court ruled that the pause was temporary, allowing the administration to proceed with some workforce reductions. As the Trump USAID layoffs continue, employees face uncertainty regarding their future roles within the agency.

This restructuring effort has raised concerns among government officials, aid workers, and international partners. USAID plays a crucial role in providing humanitarian assistance, economic development programs, and disaster relief worldwide. Critics argue that reducing staff could weaken US diplomatic efforts and foreign aid initiatives.

Supporters of the move claim that the administration is working toward a more efficient and cost-effective approach to foreign aid. Trump’s “America First” policy has consistently pushed for budget cuts in government agencies, including USAID.

As the Trump USAID layoffs proceed, thousands of workers remain in limbo. The administration’s next steps will determine USAID’s future role in global development. While legal challenges may still arise, the cuts are currently set to move forward.