• The Trump administration is formally moving to eliminate the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).
• Secretary of State Marco Rubio has indicated the merger will absorb USAID functions into the State Department by July 2025.
• This decision is expected to face legal challenges and has drawn criticism from both lawmakers and humanitarian organizations.
• More than 80% of USAID's programs have already faced cuts, with significant staffing layoffs announced.

The Trump administration has officially announced plans to dissolve the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), a significant shift in U.S. foreign aid policy that is prompting widespread concern among lawmakers and global humanitarian organizations. According to a memo from Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the agency will merge its operations into the State Department by July 1, 2025. This move follows a series of budget cuts and staff reductions initiated earlier in the administration.

In a detailed communication obtained by The Hill, Rubio conveyed that the administration intends to retire USAID's independent operational status and will reassign certain functions to the State Department. The decision has prompted warnings from Senate Democrats who have criticized the plan as “illegal, dangerous, and inefficient,” voicing fears that it would severely disrupt critical aid efforts for vulnerable populations worldwide.

As part of its reorganization strategy, the administration has already initiated significant layoffs within USAID, with employees being notified that all positions not mandated by law would be eliminated. The drastic measures coinciding with Trump's foreign aid freeze have resulted in a loss of more than 80% of USAID’s programs, as reported by India Times

Critics vehemently argue that dismantling such a vital agency, originally established under Congress, undermines U.S. commitments to global aid, an assertion backed by legal experts who suggest that such closures typically require congressional approval. An attorney involved in the discussions stated, “The unilateral closure of a federal agency established by Congress could draw immediate legal challenges," echoing concerns from various parties regarding potential constitutional violations.

Despite the asserted goals of enhancing efficiency and accountability, many worry that the absorption of USAID into the State Department will compromise the efficacy of humanitarian initiatives. Secretary Rubio maintained that the reorganization is necessary to streamline operations, asserting, “Ultimately, we are continuing essential lifesaving programs and making strategic investments that strengthen our partners and our own country.” As further developments unfold, observers remain watchful over how these significant changes to U.S. foreign assistance will impact on-the-ground realities for those reliant on aid.

For more information, visit the articles on The Hill, ABC News, Al Jazeera, and India Times.