The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) announced that almost all direct hires worldwide will be placed on administrative leave, following attacks by the Trump administration. Thousands of civil and foreign service workers will be affected, with exceptions for mission-critical personnel. The move, coming after President Trump’s freeze on foreign aid, has caused outrage among lawmakers and advocates. USAID, established by Congress and President Kennedy, delivers billions of dollars in humanitarian aid to over 100 countries. Trump’s attempts to abolish USAID have been deemed illegal, requiring congressional action. The agency manages billions in appropriations, with top recipients including countries like Ukraine and Somalia. The Trump administration’s promises to slash foreign assistance have led to efforts to dismantle USAID, with Elon Musk claiming he and Trump were shutting down the agency. Experts warn that eliminating USAID would weaken U.S. influence in regions like South America and Africa, allowing Russia and China to gain more power. This drastic move has sparked controversy and condemnation from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers.
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