The administration announced Sunday that it is eliminating 2,000 positions at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) while placing nearly all remaining staff worldwide on administrative leave.
The decision follows a federal judge’s ruling on Friday allowing the government to proceed with its plan to remove thousands of USAID employees from their roles both domestically and abroad. The judge rejected an employee lawsuit seeking to temporarily block the move.
According to internal notices sent to staff, as of 11:59 p.m. EST on February 23, 2025, all direct-hire personnel—except for those handling mission-critical functions, core leadership duties, or specially designated programs—will be placed on leave globally. Additionally, the agency confirmed plans to reduce its U.S.-based workforce by approximately 2,000 employees.
This development intensifies a broader effort to overhaul the agency, which has already led to the closure of its headquarters in Washington and the suspension of numerous aid and development initiatives worldwide. The administration has defended the cuts, arguing that foreign assistance programs are inefficient and misaligned with government priorities.
Recognizing concerns from overseas personnel who have reported being cut off from government communications, the agency assured staff that it remains committed to their safety. Until they return home, they will retain access to agency systems and diplomatic resources. Employees placed on leave abroad are expected to receive voluntary, agency-funded return travel and other benefits.
