The US Agency for International Development (USAID) faced a grim future as Elon Musk, tasked with revamping the federal government, revealed that President Trump had approved its shutdown. USAID’s headquarters in Washington remained closed, employees instructed to stay home as logos and aid work visuals were stripped from the premises. Trump and Musk targeted USAID, labeling it partisan and Democratic-leaning, aiming to fold it under the State Department. Amidst speculations of its imminent closure, Musk confirmed plans to shut down USAID during a conversation on his platform, X Spaces.

USAID personnel were directed to work remotely, with key security officials put on leave for resisting access to agency systems by Department of Government Efficiency personnel. Despite initial resistance, DOGE eventually gained access to classified information. USAID workers expressed concerns as the agency’s Google Drive was made accessible to the State Department, and internal documents were shared. Logos and photos showcasing USAID’s global humanitarian efforts were removed, leaving employees unsettled and uncertain about their future.

Trump’s executive order freezing foreign aid for 90 days added to the turmoil, leading to layoffs and program closures. Established in 1961, USAID plays a vital role in distributing billions for poverty alleviation, disease treatment, disaster response, and democracy promotion worldwide. The agency serves as a crucial soft power tool for the US, complementing defense and diplomacy efforts to enhance global relations and national security.