The top federal health authorities have warned against the Trump administration’s plan to cut U.S. foreign aid, predicting dire consequences: one million children untreated for malnutrition, 166,000 malaria deaths, and more. Despite these warnings, officials obstructed efforts to maintain vital aid programs, leading to devastating impacts. President Trump’s appointees and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency proceeded with dismantling USAID, impeding staff and disregarding warnings. Memos reveal the chaos behind the scenes, with staff struggling to protect critical programs. The administration’s claims of a thoughtful review process are debunked, with evidence of haphazard decision-making. The cuts are expected to trigger disease outbreaks, instability, and increased deaths globally. The termination of projects abruptly halts lifesaving operations, risking lives and national security on a massive scale. The documents also shed light on the ripple effects of the cuts, such as a surge in tuberculosis cases and destabilization in conflict zones like the Democratic Republic of Congo. The administration’s attempts to reverse some terminations highlight the chaotic aftermath of the abrupt program cancellations. Overall, the situation is described as an “incompetent mess” by officials, showcasing the severe repercussions of the administration’s actions.