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The State Department began laying off more than 1,300 employees on Friday, as part of a drastic structural reorganization initiated by the Trump administration.
The measure, which involves the elimination of hundreds of positions, has sparked strong criticism from diplomats and foreign relations experts, who warn of a weakening of the United States' ability to confront international threats.
According to information provided to the AP agency by a senior official of the department, layoff notifications were sent to 1,107 public officials and 246 members of the foreign service with assignments in U.S. territory.
The latter will be placed on administrative leave for 120 days before their formal separation.
The cuts are part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to reduce the size of the federal government, a goal that includes the complete elimination of agencies such as USAID and the Department of Education.
In the case of the State Department, the reorganization will affect more than 300 offices, prioritizing the closure of units deemed redundant or ideologically incompatible with government policies.
In a statement from Kuala Lumpur, Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the measure as a "deliberate action" to make the department's operations more efficient.
"Some of these are positions that are being eliminated, not people," he said, referring to vacancies and early retirements. He assured that the intention is not to get rid of staff, but to optimize resources.
However, the decision has raised alarm among diplomatic circles. The American Academy of Diplomacy described the restructuring as an "act of vandalism" that jeopardizes the country's operational capability at a critical moment in international politics.
" dismantling institutional knowledge weakens our response to strategic threats and ongoing conflicts," the organization stated.
The United States Foreign Service Association, the union representing diplomats, also questioned the decision and called for its suspension. Its president, Tom Yazdgerdi, stated that dismissing staff in this manner "endangers national interests."
While legal challenges against the cuts continue, a recent ruling by the Supreme Court allowed the administration to proceed with the process.
Although the layoffs were fewer than initially feared, they represent one of the largest restructuring efforts in the State Department in decades.
Among the most affected programs are those related to human rights, immigration, democracy promotion, and assistance to refugees.
Frequently Asked Questions about the State Department Restructuring Driven by Trump
Why has the State Department laid off more than 1,300 employees?
The dismissal of over 1,300 employees from the Department of State is part of a drastic structural reorganization driven by the Trump administration. This move aims to reduce the size of the federal government and make the department’s operations more efficient. According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, this restructuring is necessary to optimize resources and respond to current global challenges.
What consequences could this reorganization have on the foreign policy of the United States?
The reorganization of the State Department could have significant consequences on the ability of the United States to address international threats, according to diplomats and experts. The elimination of programs related to human rights, immigration, and refugee assistance could weaken the country's diplomatic influence in a volatile international context.
How has the diplomatic community reacted to the layoffs at the State Department?
The diplomatic community has reacted with concern and criticism regarding the layoffs. Organizations such as the American Academy of Diplomacy and the Association of Foreign Service Officers have described the restructuring as an "act of vandalism" that jeopardizes national interests and the operational capacity of the country.
Which programs of the State Department will be most affected by the restructuring?
The programs most affected by the restructuring of the State Department include those related to human rights, immigration, promoting democracy, and aid to refugees. These areas are seen as not aligned with the current priorities of the administration, raising concerns about the impact on U.S. foreign policy.
What other agencies and departments of the federal government have been affected by similar staff reduction measures?
In addition to the State Department, other federal agencies and departments have also been affected by staff reduction measures under the Trump administration. USAID has been closed, and layoffs have begun at the FAA, NOAA, and the Department of Health, among others. These actions are part of a broader strategy to reduce the government apparatus and redirect resources to new priorities.
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