The decision followed a federal court ruling that allowed the administration to proceed with its plan to reduce the USAID workforce, as part of broader efforts to cut federal spending and reform the agency.

The Trump administration is eliminating 2,000 USAID positions, and most remaining staff are being placed on administrative leave globally, except for those in mission-critical roles.

Concerns have been raised about the safety of overseas staff, but the administration has assured that they will retain access to emergency communications, including two-way radios and a phone app with a panic button.

There are ongoing legal battles, including lawsuits challenging the administration's authority to cut USAID positions and freeze foreign aid. A separate judge has blocked the freeze on foreign aid, ordering its temporary restoration.