The State Department is initiating the recall of all United States Agency for International Development (USAID) personnel stationed abroad by the upcoming weekend, as reported by internal sources. This directive was communicated by Seth Green, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Global Operations, who acknowledged the challenges and emotional impact of the recall. The plan, not yet publicly announced, aims to bring back over two-thirds of USAID’s 10,000 overseas employees amid concerns of feasibility and logistics.

The sudden recall presents significant challenges for employees, including arranging personal matters such as pet care, schooling for children, and spousal arrangements. Moreover, the financial burden of withdrawing a large number of foreign service officers and their families is anticipated to be substantial. The Trump administration’s move to dismantle USAID has raised uncertainty and anxiety among staff, with fears of losing essential services in countries where USAID funds U.S. mission operations.

President Trump has tasked the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), led by Elon Musk, to review USAID programs and potentially downsize the agency, citing allegations of corruption and fraud without concrete evidence. The administration’s actions, including placing employees on leave and laying off contractors, have led to confusion and distress within USAID. Concerns have been raised about the negative impact of these decisions on global goodwill and trust, potentially leaving vulnerable countries susceptible to influence by rival nations like China and Russia.