USAID is set to reduce its staff from over 5,000 to approximately 290 employees, NBC News reports. Most support contractors have already been dismissed, with staff overseas ordered to return home within 30 days. The drastic downsizing leaves critical regions like Africa and Asia with just a handful of personnel.
The American Foreign Service Association and federal employee unions have filed a lawsuit, arguing that the Trump administration’s actions are illegal without congressional approval. They warn that halting USAID operations will trigger a global humanitarian crisis and strain taxpayer resources.
These cuts are part of a broader effort led by Trump and Elon Musk to restructure the federal government, including buyouts for millions of federal workers.
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