‘Simultaneously!’ Trump Administration Initiates Mass Layoffs at USAID, 1,600 Employees Affected

OwelekeTV News — The administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump has commenced large-scale dismissals at the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), affecting a significant number of employees.

According to an official statement on the agency’s website, approximately 1,600 personnel stationed in the U.S. will be impacted by the workforce reduction.

“Effective 11:59 p.m. EST on Sunday, February 23, 2025, all USAID direct-hire employees—except those designated for mission-critical roles, leadership positions, or special programs—will be placed on administrative leave worldwide,”

the statement announced.

Simultaneously, USAID confirmed that a Reduction-in-Force process had commenced, leading to job cuts for nearly 1,600 employees based in the United States.

Affected employees are expected to receive official notifications on February 23, 2025, along with guidance regarding their benefits, rights, and additional instructions.

“Essential personnel who are required to continue working will be notified by agency leadership by 5 p.m. EST on February 23, 2025,”

the agency added.

For those stationed overseas, USAID has introduced a voluntary, agency-funded return travel program alongside other support measures. It assured that personnel abroad would remain under its protection until their return.

“Until they are repatriated, affected staff will continue to have access to USAID systems, diplomatic resources, and other necessary support,”

the statement noted.

The agency also indicated that in the coming days, detailed instructions would be provided regarding the retrieval of personal belongings from former workspaces and the return of government-issued devices.

Further guidance and updates will be shared via official USAID channels and the agency’s website for those unable to access internal systems.

As the United States’ primary international development agency, USAID manages billions of dollars in foreign aid, focusing on disaster relief, global health, and development initiatives.

The Trump administration had earlier placed all directly hired staff on administrative leave worldwide, with plans to integrate USAID’s functions into the State Department. This move aligns with broader efforts to reduce the federal workforce and cut government spending.