**USAID Staff Removed Amid Controversy**
The Trump administration removed two top security officials from the US Agency for International Development (USAID) over the weekend. The officials were trying to prevent representatives from Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) from accessing restricted areas.
This is part of a broader effort by Trump’s team to take away USAID’s independence. Almost 100 senior staff members have been put on leave while discussions continue about shifting the agency under State Department control.
**Security Concerns Raised**
A Senate Democratic aide said that DOGE personnel entered USAID headquarters without security clearances and were initially turned away by agency security officers. However, they were threatened with action by federal Marshals. The security director and his deputy were removed from their positions shortly afterward.
It is unclear what information was obtained by the DOGE officials. They accessed offices containing classified materials and personal data. A spokesperson for DOGE said that no classified material was accessed without proper clearances.
**Concerns Over USAID’s Independence**
The shake-up has raised legal concerns, with congressional Democrats warning that dismantling USAID’s independence could violate US law. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chair Jeanne Shaheen has formally requested an explanation from Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Brian Mast supports placing USAID under State Department oversight. “There needs to be more command and control,” he said.
**USAID’s Funding and Future Uncertain**
The agency’s website has been offline since February 2, a sign that USAID could be nearing its dissolution. The agency’s funding supports initiatives ranging from women’s health in conflict zones to HIV/AIDS treatment, energy security, and anti-corruption programs.
Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, USAID has played a vital role in supporting the country. The agency has provided $2.6 billion in humanitarian aid, $5 billion in development assistance, and more than $30 billion in direct budget support.
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