Trump Administration Slashes 1,600 USAID Jobs In Major Overhaul Of US Foreign Aid Operations
The Donald Trump administration has initiated a sweeping reduction in the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), affecting at least 1,600 employees.
In a statement published on its website, USAID confirmed that as of 11:59 p.m. EST on February 23, 2025, most direct-hire personnel—except those handling mission-critical functions—will be placed on administrative leave worldwide.
Mass Layoffs Incoming The agency also announced a Reduction-in-Force (RIF) targeting USA-based employees, with affected staff receiving official notifications on February 23. Essential personnel expected to remain in their roles will be informed by 5 p.m. EST the same day. For overseas staff, USAID is offering voluntary return travel programs and other benefits while ensuring continued access to agency resources until their return. Further instructions on retrieving personal belongings and returning government-issued devices will be provided in the coming week.
Trump’s Plan To Restructure USAID The move is part of Trump’s broader plan to dismantle USAID and shift its functions to the State Department, in line with his administration’s push to reduce the federal workforce and cut taxpayer expenses. USAID, the world’s leading international development agency, oversees billions of dollars in US aid, primarily funding disaster relief, global health, and development projects.
