WASHINGTON — In a bold move announced Tuesday, the Trump administration stated it will withdraw almost all employees of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) from their posts worldwide. This decision effectively signals the potential end of a crucial six-decade mission focused on enhancing American security through initiatives aimed at combating poverty, promoting education, and addressing global health crises. The notification was communicated via emails and an official notice, and comes amid a broader shift towards budget cuts spearheaded by political appointees from Trump's previous term and members of Elon Musk’s government-efficiency teams, who are advocating for significant reductions in overseas expenditure. The order will take effect just before midnight Friday, allowing current USAID direct hires a 30-day window to return home unless labeled as essential personnel. With this drastic measure, numerous ongoing programs are poised to be halted, affecting billions of dollars in aid across approximately 120 countries. This includes critical partnerships with nations like Ukraine, as well as developmental assistance targeting basic needs such as clean water and education for vulnerable populations, including schoolgirls facing Taliban rule in Afghanistan. As the world’s largest donor of humanitarian aid, spending less than 1% of the federal budget on international assistance, the potential closure of USAID could have devastating implications. Health initiatives that previously helped eradicate diseases such as polio and smallpox are already ceasing operations, while vast quantities of food and medicine destined for global aid remain stranded due to the agency’s abrupt shutdown. Critics argue that USAID is an independent agency enshrined in law, requiring congressional approval to dissolve or eliminate its protective measures. In a sign of ongoing discontent, the American Foreign Service Association has reportedly signaled intentions to explore legal options against this sweeping action. As this situation unfolds, many USAID staff members are faced with difficult decisions regarding mid-year relocations, personal commitments and the futures of important humanitarian projects they have championed for years.