The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has ordered the closure of all overseas offices and the immediate return of all employees to the U.S. by the end of the week.
On February 4, Pete Marocco, the newly appointed Deputy Administrator of USAID, met with State Department officials, instructing them to recall all USAID personnel from abroad.
According to CBS News, Marocco warned that if the State Department does not comply, the U.S. military will handle the evacuation of USAID staff. The State Department has since ordered all USAID offices abroad to cease operations, with employees and their families expected to return to the U.S. by February 7.
Merging USAID into the State Department
This move comes as the Trump administration prepares to merge USAID into the State Department, effectively ending its status as an independent entity. Reuters, citing a source familiar with the matter, confirmed the plan but noted that the deadline for the recall could be extended.
With over 10,000 employees, two-thirds of whom work in more than 60 offices worldwide, the decision marks a significant shift in U.S. foreign aid strategy. Established by Congress in 1961, USAID operates with a $43 billion budget, primarily focusing on humanitarian aid and global development programs. It provides assistance in over 100 countries, including disaster relief, health services, and emergency food aid.
Trump’s Push to Dismantle USAID
The Trump administration has long targeted USAID, with billionaire Elon Musk, head of the U.S. Office of Government Efficiency (DOGE), advocating for cutting foreign aid and downsizing government operations.
Musk and other Trump allies have repeatedly criticized USAID, accusing it of defying White House directives and calling for its shutdown. When asked on February 4 about USAID’s future, Trump hinted at its closure, praising Musk for his "thorough review" of the agency.
"Look at the waste Musk uncovered," Trump said, arguing that USAID had funneled funds to groups that "didn’t deserve it."
Concerns Over Impact on Global Aid
However, Atul Gawande, former USAID Global Health Director, warned that dismantling the agency would endanger lives and weaken U.S. global influence.
"We are talking about the people who respond to natural disasters, those who provide life-saving aid and protect America’s interests worldwide," Gawande said.
The abrupt decision to shut down USAID’s overseas offices has sparked concerns among international aid organizations and U.S. lawmakers, raising questions about America’s commitment to global humanitarian efforts.
(Sources: CBS, AP)
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