Sun Feb 23 21:48:04 UTC 2025: ## Trump Administration Mass Layoffs at USAID Spark Outrage
**Washington, D.C. –** The Trump administration has implemented sweeping cuts at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), placing nearly all of its staff worldwide on administrative leave and eliminating 2,000 positions. This drastic action, following a federal judge’s rejection of employee lawsuits, has sparked widespread condemnation.
Notices sent to USAID employees, viewed by the Associated Press, indicate that all direct-hire personnel, except those deemed essential, will be on leave as of February 23rd, 2025. Hundreds of contractors also received termination letters lacking crucial identifying information, potentially hindering their ability to receive unemployment benefits.
The administration, led by President Trump and cost-cutter Elon Musk, justifies the move by claiming USAID’s work is wasteful and promotes a liberal agenda. This action follows a month-long assault on the agency, including the closure of its headquarters and the shutdown of thousands of aid and development programs globally.
While a separate court ruling temporarily blocked a freeze on foreign assistance funding, the mass layoffs highlight the administration’s significant restructuring of USAID. The impact of these actions on international aid and development efforts remains to be seen.
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