The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) headquarters unexpectedly closed its doors to staff on Monday, sparking confusion and concern among employees. Sources confirmed to Fox News Digital that an email circulated, informing staff of the closure. Furthermore, reports from the Associated Press indicate some staffers experienced locked accounts on USAID computer systems overnight, with those still able to access the system receiving emails citing "agency leadership" as the reason behind the Monday closure.
This sudden shutdown follows pronouncements by Elon Musk, leading the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative, who suggested during an online discussion that President Donald Trump supported shuttering the agency. USAID, responsible for distributing humanitarian aid, development assistance, and security support globally, has been described by Musk as irreparably flawed and in need of dismantling. He has publicly criticized the agency on social media, labeling it a "criminal organization" and a "viper's nest" of individuals hostile to the United States.
President-elect Donald Trump greets Elon Musk in Brownsville, Texas. (Brandon Bell/Getty Images)
The agency's website became inaccessible on Saturday, further fueling speculation about its future. Musk has also expressed increasing admiration for President Trump, stating his fondness for the former president.
President Donald Trump speaks to reporters in the Oval Office. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
The USAID logo. (Celal Gunes/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)
Atul Gawande, former head of global health at USAID under the Biden administration, expressed deep concern over the shutdown, describing it as detrimental to U.S. interests and a boon to adversaries. He highlighted the agency's role in combating global health crises, citing efforts to contain Ebola and bird flu outbreaks, which have now been disrupted. Gawande also criticized the treatment of USAID employees, alleging the removal of experienced staff and the dismantling of a memorial wall honoring those who died in service.
