Washington: Employees of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) were ordered via an internal memo on Monday to avoid reporting to the agency’s headquarters in Washington, D.C.
The directive follows statements by billionaire Elon Musk, who claimed that former President Donald Trump agreed with him on shutting down the agency.
USAID employees reported that access to the agency’s computer system was cut off for approximately 600 staff members overnight. Those who still had access received an email stating that, "under leadership direction," the headquarters would be closing on February 3.
Musk, whom Trump appointed to lead the Federal Efficiency Office, publicly stated on Monday that he had discussed USAID with Trump, who agreed that the agency "must be shut down." The agency, which has been operating for more than 60 years, plays a critical role in global humanitarian and development efforts.
During a live broadcast on X (formerly Twitter), Musk remarked, "It’s not like there’s just one worm in this apple—this is a whole ball of worms. It must be completely dismantled… and we are shutting it down now."
USAID, which provides aid and supports development programs in about 120 countries, has been a frequent target of criticism from Musk, Trump, and some Republican members of Congress, who have accused it of supporting liberal agendas.
According to sources, two senior security officials at USAID were suspended after refusing to share classified information with Musk’s investigative team. The Federal Efficiency Office, under Musk’s leadership, previously conducted similar actions at the Treasury Department, gaining access to sensitive data, including Social Security and Medicare payment records. The Washington Post reported that a high-ranking Treasury official resigned due to these security concerns.
Democratic lawmakers have condemned the move, arguing that Trump does not have the legal authority to close USAID without congressional approval. They have also raised concerns about Musk’s access to sensitive government data.
On Sunday evening, Trump told reporters, "This agency has been run by radical elements, and we’re getting rid of it."
These developments come as Secretary of State Marco Rubio is on an official visit to Central America. Rubio has yet to publicly comment on the closure of USAID.
The Trump administration has already imposed severe restrictions on U.S. foreign aid, impacting global humanitarian efforts. Thousands of aid workers and USAID staff have been laid off as a result.
Peter Marocco, a political appointee from Trump’s first term, is reportedly overseeing the shutdown process. USAID employees believe that temporary badge holders seen questioning staff members may be affiliated with Musk’s efficiency task force.
Senator Elizabeth Warren responded on social media Sunday, stating that Trump had given Musk undue access to personal data and federal resources.
"We must do everything we can to oppose this and protect people," Warren warned, without providing further details.
