The Trump administration’s swift dismantling of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) reached its final stages as emotional scenes unfolded during the closure of the agency’s headquarters. Over 90% of USAID’s contracts for humanitarian and development work worldwide are being terminated, and a judge’s order to release billions of dollars in foreign aid has been temporarily blocked by the Supreme Court.

USAID staff, including 25-year-old Juliane Alfen, were abruptly placed on leave or terminated, leading to heart-wrenching moments as they cleared their desks in a rushed 15-minute window. Outside the headquarters, supporters rallied with encouraging signs and gestures, creating a poignant atmosphere.

President Trump and Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency targeted USAID to significantly reduce the federal government’s size, slashing $60 billion in foreign assistance. Accusations of wasteful spending and misalignment with the administration’s agenda have been made, despite lacking evidence.

The administration’s actions have faced legal challenges, including lawsuits over staff cuts and funding freezes. The Supreme Court’s recent intervention temporarily halted a judge’s order to release foreign aid funds, highlighting the ongoing legal battles and uncertainties surrounding USAID’s future.

The abrupt staff reductions and closures have raised concerns about the impact on critical programs, with organizations already reporting cancellations of USAID contracts for HIV programs in South Africa. The lack of congressional involvement in these drastic changes has sparked criticism, with Virginia Democratic Rep. Gerald Connolly denouncing the targeting of USAID employees as unwarranted and unprecedented.

As the legal battles continue and the fate of USAID remains uncertain, the implications of these rapid changes on global development and foreign assistance efforts are being closely watched.