In a move that has sent shockwaves through the international aid community, the Trump administration has formally announced plans to dismantle the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)—a decision that could drastically reshape America’s role in global humanitarian efforts.
USAID on the Chopping Block
On Friday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the administration had notified Congress of its intent to shut down USAID, with some of its functions being absorbed by the State Department by July 1, 2025.
“Unfortunately, USAID strayed from its original mission long ago. The gains were too few, and the costs were too high,” Rubio stated, justifying the move as a necessary reorganization of U.S. foreign aid.
The restructuring follows President Trump’s executive order freezing U.S. foreign aid for 90 days after taking office in January. Since then, USAID’s budget of nearly $43 billion—responsible for over 40% of the world’s humanitarian aid—has been dramatically slashed, leaving vital programs in limbo.
Backlash and Controversy
The decision has sparked outrage among lawmakers, aid workers, and global leaders, who warn of catastrophic consequences for developing nations that rely on U.S. humanitarian support.
Senate Democrats on the Committee on Foreign Relations blasted the plan, calling it:
“Illegal, dangerous, and inefficient. This move will not only cripple USAID’s ability to deliver aid but will also overwhelm the State Department, disrupting its core mission.”
USAID employees were reportedly informed via an internal memo that all non-essential jobs would be eliminated, with most independent operations winding down in the coming months.
What’s Next?
While some emergency aid programs may continue, experts fear that the closure of USAID will leave a massive void in global humanitarian assistance, with millions of people affected.
The big question now is: Will Congress fight to save USAID, or is this truly the end of an era for U.S. foreign aid?
