Trump administration trims over 300 workforce at Nuclear Security Agency Congressional Worries Intensify

The Trump administration has dismissed more than 300 employees from the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), the agency responsible for managing the United States' nuclear arsenal, as part of broader layoffs within the Energy Department.

Sources familiar with the situation revealed the scale of the cuts, although the Energy Department later disputed the number, Caliber.Az reports via US media.

A department spokesperson claimed that "less than 50 people" were let go, and that those dismissed primarily held "administrative and clerical roles". However, individuals affected included NNSA staff working at facilities where nuclear weapons are constructed, as well as those overseeing contractors involved in nuclear weapons production and inspection.

Sources suggested that some of those fired at NNSA headquarters were responsible for writing essential requirements and guidelines for contractors. One source, speaking anonymously, said: “No one has taken time to understand what we do and the importance of our work to the nation’s national security.”

Congressional concerns over the firings have already been raised, with several senators reportedly visiting Energy Secretary Chris Wright to voice their disquiet. "The cuts at NNSA have raised serious concerns," a Hill staffer confirmed.

NNSA, which employs around 1,800 individuals across the country, saw only probationary staff at the Office of Secure Transportation—responsible for the secure movement of nuclear weapons—exempt from the layoff decisions.

A person with knowledge of the issue said that these staff members were spared due to the critical nature of their work in ensuring the safe transportation of nuclear materials.

By Aghakazim Guliyev