The Trump administration has recently initiated a near-total freeze of U.S. foreign aid, leading to uncertainty about the future of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). Discussions are underway to place USAID under the authority of the State Department, which could further weaken the agency that has already experienced significant setbacks. Hundreds of employees and contractors have been fired or furloughed, senior career leaders have been sidelined, and U.S. foreign missions have been disrupted. Prominent signs in the lobby of USAID’s headquarters have been removed, prompting concerns about the agency shutting down altogether. Democratic lawmakers have expressed opposition to any restructuring that would undermine the independence of USAID. The downsizing of the agency is reportedly being directed by Pete Marocco, who has a history of attempting to consolidate power and slash funding. Critics argue that the cuts to foreign aid and downsizing of USAID benefit U.S. adversaries and undermine American interests globally. The State Department and USAID have not responded to requests for comment. Actions taken by the Trump administration are seen to align with a conservative report that recommended transforming civil servant positions at USAID into political appointee roles and consolidating the agency. Overall, there are concerns about the future of USAID and its ability to carry out humanitarian assistance operations overseas under the current administration.
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