Secretary of State Marco Rubio Approves Major Staff Reduction at USAID

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has authorized a sweeping reduction in the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), deeming only 294 employees essential out of its global workforce of over 14,000. This move, part of the Donald Trump administration’s broader federal restructuring efforts, has sparked widespread criticism and concern.

The cuts align with the administration’s “America First” policy and follow reports of dissatisfaction with USAID’s perceived inefficiencies and its role in advancing U.S. foreign policy goals. As a result, the majority of USAID staff—both domestically and abroad—are expected to be placed on administrative leave by midnight Friday, forcing the immediate closure of numerous missions and programs.

Critics, including Democratic lawmakers and humanitarian organizations, argue that the move jeopardizes U.S. national security and global humanitarian initiatives. Labor unions representing USAID employees have filed lawsuits, calling the cuts “unconstitutional and illegal” while seeking to halt the administration’s actions.

Defending the decision, Rubio emphasized the need to curb bureaucratic waste and ensure foreign aid aligns with national interests. “This is not about ending foreign aid,” he stated at a press conference. “But we must guarantee that every dollar spent directly benefits the American people and advances our strategic objectives.”

The unprecedented downsizing raises pressing questions about the future of USAID’s critical programs, including global health initiatives, emergency relief efforts, and development work across more than 100 countries. As the situation unfolds, USAID employees and the international community brace for the far-reaching consequences of these drastic cuts.