Following Trump’s Executive Order, USAID Closes Shop

The State Department has, following an executive order by President Donald Trump of the United States of America, formally notified Congress of its plans to dissolve the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) by July 1, marking the end of a 60-year-old agency that has managed billions of dollars in foreign assistance programs.

According to sources, the reorganization will eliminate “substantially all non-statutory positions” at USAID, leaving only a skeleton crew of fewer than 900 employees to oversee select functions that will be transferred to the State Department. The remaining workforce will receive “reduction-in-force” notices immediately, effective July 1.

The decision to dismantle USAID has sent shockwaves throughout the international development community, with many questioning the verscity of the move.

The agency was established by Congress in 1961 to provide humanitarian assistance, promote economic growth, and support global health initiatives. Its abolition without legislative approval is expected to face intense legal scrutiny, with aid groups and terminated employees already preparing to challenge the decision in court.

“We are deeply concerned about the impact this will have on the millions of people around the world who rely on USAID’s programs for food, shelter, and medical care,” said Sarah Johnson, executive director of the humanitarian organization, Save the Children. “The abrupt shutdown of USAID will leave a gaping hole in the global response to humanitarian crises, and we urge Congress to take immediate action to reverse this decision.”

The State Department has announced that only select programs will continue under its management, including humanitarian assistance, global health functions, strategic investment, and limited national security initiatives. However, critics argue that this will not be enough to fill the void left by USAID’s demise.

“USAID has been a cornerstone of American foreign policy for decades, and its elimination will undermine our ability to promote stability, prosperity, and security around the world,” said Senator Bob Menendez, ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “I will be working closely with my colleagues to explore all options to restore funding and authority to USAID, and to ensure that our international development programs are not compromised by this reckless decision.”

The shutdown of USAID has also sparked concerns about the fate of thousands of employees who have been left stranded overseas without reimbursement. Many have reported being abandoned by the agency, with no support or resources to help them return to the United States.

As the July 1 deadline approaches, the international community is bracing for the impact of USAID’s dissolution. With lawsuits and legal challenges already mounting, it remains to be seen whether the State Department’s decision will be allowed to stand.