Trump Administration Cuts 1600 Jobs at USAID

washington - The Trump administration puts a significant number of USAID staff on administrative leave, amid ongoing criticism of the organization.

Administration Cuts Jobs at USAID

The Trump administration has placed a large portion of the personnel of the USAID on administrative leave. Non-essential staff worldwide, excluding certain executives and employees of specific projects, are being put on paid administrative leave, affecting approximately 4700 employees, according to NPR.

President Trump had previously attempted to send thousands of USAID employees home, but was blocked by the court after unions filed a case. However, a judge ruled on Friday that the new administration's plans could proceed.

Shortly after his inauguration in January, the president targeted USAID, suspending aid provided through the organization for three months. He claimed on social media that USAID is 'corrupt' and 'engages in fraud'. Elon Musk's advisory body, DOGE, has also criticized USAID, with Musk stating that he and Trump agree that the aid organization should be shut down.