The Trump administration claims it has the authority to restructure USAID, but critics argue that dismantling a statutory agency like USAID requires congressional approval, not just an executive order.

The court's decision allows the Trump administration to place thousands of USAID employees on administrative leave and recall those overseas, giving them a 30-day deadline to return to the U.S. at government expense. Despite initial concerns about safety, the court found that protections for overseas workers are adequate[1].

Dismantling USAID could severely impact humanitarian efforts worldwide, as it has been a key player in international development and aid. The sudden reduction in staffing and funding freeze have already kept lifesaving programs offline.

Multiple lawsuits are ongoing, including those from labor unions and nonprofit organizations, challenging the administration's actions on USAID. Another court order has temporarily blocked the halt to foreign aid funding.