**USAID Closure Demanded by Trump**
President Donald Trump called for the immediate closure of the US Agency for International Development (USAID) on February 7. This came just hours before most of its staff faced suspension or layoffs.
Trump made the call on his social media platform, Truth Social. He accused USAID of widespread corruption and fraud, saying “CLOSE IT DOWN!” Trump had previously described the agency as being run by radical lunatics.
**USAID Staff Left Scrambling**
Most direct hires at USAID were set to be placed on indefinite leave, while contractors faced layoffs. However, due to the sudden changes, foreign service officers are now allowed to stay overseas at their own expense. Those who choose to stay abroad will have to cover their own travel costs.
The abrupt changes left many aid workers worried about how they could relocate their families on such short notice. The revised policy offered little reassurance to those facing potential job losses.
**USAID’s Work in Ukraine**
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, USAID has provided the country with over $38 billion in humanitarian and development assistance. This includes funding for rebuilding schools after Russian attacks, paying for bomb shelters, advanced medical equipment, and more.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
