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- Rubio says it’s ‘not our intention’ to uproot USAID workers abroad (abcnews.go.com)
Secretary of State Marco Rubio reassured US embassy staff in Guatemala this week that the administration wasn’t aiming to displace families working abroad with USAID. This follows a recent 30-day return mandate issued by the agency.
Rubio, acting director of USAID, acknowledged the administration’s abrupt approach to cutting the agency. He cited unforeseen obstacles as the reason for the rapid changes.
Earlier this week, Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency, announced plans to shut down USAID with President Trump’s support. This move is part of a larger effort to downsize the federal government.
On Wednesday, the Trump administration placed all USAID direct-hire employees on administrative leave, effective Friday. Foreign-based employees were ordered to return to the US within 30 days.
Rubio told Guatemalan embassy staff that the ambassador provided him with a list of in-country USAID programs aligned with US interests. This list was reportedly compiled overnight by staff following Rubio’s arrival.
Rubio then requested similar lists from all US missions worldwide to inform decisions about program continuation. This request came with a Thursday deadline.
Some overseas USAID staff have pushed back against this tight deadline, calling it impossible to meet. They suggest it might be a tactic to avoid potential employee lawsuits that could hinder the agency’s dismantling.
Rubio addressed concerns from USAID’s Guatemala mission director regarding foreign aid cuts. He insisted the US remains committed to foreign aid. While acknowledging its unpopularity, he defended its importance.
Rubio’s private comments echoed his public statements, though he expressed more empathy for affected employees. He emphasized the essential role of foreign aid in US foreign policy.
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- Rubio says it’s ‘not our intention’ to uproot USAID workers abroad (abcnews.go.com)