USAID website goes dark amid reports of agency's shutdown

On February 1 afternoon, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) went offline, sending shockwaves through Washington as lawmakers and aid workers braced for the possibility of a complete shutdown. 

The move comes amid mounting fears that President Donald Trump is preparing to issue an executive order dissolving the agency, consolidating its operations within the State Department, Caliber.Az reports, citing American media.

A minimal, altered version of the USAID website briefly appeared on the State Department's page, signalling that the agency's functions—currently under severe restriction—may have already been integrated into the State Department’s broader framework. This development follows weeks of rumours and reports that the Trump administration is looking to curtail U.S. foreign aid, a core pillar of his "America First" agenda.

Since January 31, Democratic lawmakers and international aid workers have been on edge as reports of an impending shutdown emerged. Sources close to the matter claimed that signs bearing the USAID logo were taken down from the agency’s headquarters in downtown Washington, fueling speculation that mission directors stationed abroad are being recalled to the U.S. However, these reports could not be independently confirmed.

USAID employees, speaking on the condition of anonymity due to a gag order, described an atmosphere of fear and confusion within the agency. At least half of the agency's workforce has reportedly been laid off in recent days, significantly disrupting operations. One employee described the last week as one of turmoil, with staff members unsure of the agency's future.

The move to dismantle USAID is consistent with Trump's longstanding criticism of foreign assistance, which he has argued wastes taxpayer money and does not serve American interests. 

By Khagan Isayev