USAID Shutdown: Musk Says It’s a Criminal Organization

USAID Shutdown: Musk Says It’s a Criminal Organization

The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) has faced major disruptions recently, including its website going offline. As of February 1, 2025, the USAID website became inaccessible, displaying an error message about the server being unreachable.

This occurred amid a broader foreign aid freeze initiated by the Trump administration, aligning with its “America First” policy. Consequently, concerns about the agency’s future have intensified, especially with ongoing efforts to integrate USAID into the State Department.

Musk’s Criticism of USAID

On February 2, 2025, Elon Musk called USAID a “criminal organization” on his platform, X, stating that it should “die” as part of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) initiative he oversees.

This initiative seeks to cut federal spending and reduce the size of agencies perceived as wasteful. Furthermore, Musk’s comments align with those of former President Trump, who has also criticized USAID, calling its leadership “radical lunatics” and suggesting the agency is mismanaged.

Tensions Within USAID

Reports indicate that senior USAID officials were placed on leave after denying DOGE staff access to classified systems. As a result, tensions between Musk’s team and USAID personnel have escalated, raising concerns about national security.

Additionally, sources suggest that the Trump administration may issue an executive order to dissolve USAID as a standalone entity. If executed, this move would shift its $42.8 billion budget and responsibilities to the State Department. However, lawmakers and aid officials fear this could harm global humanitarian efforts.

Staff Layoffs and Suspensions

USAID has faced substantial layoffs, with nearly half its workforce affected recently. In addition, two top security officials were placed on leave after a dispute over access to sensitive documents. These actions have further fueled concerns regarding the agency’s future and operational stability. Meanwhile, Democratic lawmakers strongly oppose these moves, arguing they could trigger a constitutional crisis. They also contend that the president lacks authority to eliminate a congressionally funded agency without legislative approval.

Humanitarian Impact and International Concerns

Major international organizations like Oxfam America and various UN agencies have voiced alarm over the aid freeze. They warn that it could severely impact vulnerable populations, particularly in conflict zones and famine-stricken areas. For instance, Oxfam’s Abby Maxman stated that the freeze could have “life-or-death implications” and criticized the shift away from a bipartisan approach that prioritizes humanitarian needs over politics.

Operational Adjustments in Global Aid

The UN Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, has already instructed staff to restrict spending due to funding uncertainties. This reflects broader efforts to manage the crisis triggered by the U.S. aid suspension. Similarly, affected countries, including Ukraine, Jordan, Yemen, and Afghanistan, face growing instability as they rely heavily on U.S. aid. Notably, Ukraine received $14.4 billion in 2023, meaning aid disruptions could severely affect its recovery and stability.

Shifts in Diplomatic Relations and U.S. Global Standing

If U.S. aid becomes unreliable, some analysts suggest it could shift how nations engage with American assistance. As a result, diplomatic ties may change, leading to decreased reliance on U.S. support. Domestically, there is bipartisan concern regarding the legality of dissolving USAID without congressional approval. Senators argue such actions require legislative backing rather than unilateral executive decisions. Consequently, legal battles and congressional oversight are expected.

Broader Implications of the USAID Shutdown

These abrupt foreign aid policy changes could also affect global perceptions of U.S. leadership. Nations might begin to view U.S. aid as politically driven rather than a reliable humanitarian resource. As a result, humanitarian efforts worldwide are now at risk. Already, aid programs funded by the U.S. have started laying off staff and shutting down operations.

For example, schools in Liberia face staff reductions, and medical programs risk closure, potentially increasing child mortality rates. Similarly, in Syria, aid workers in displacement camps have been ordered to halt operations, endangering access to clean water and sanitation services for thousands. Given the confusion over which programs can continue, many organizations struggle with operational paralysis.

Increased Vulnerability and Challenges in Aid Coordination

Suspending U.S. aid—which comprises approximately 40% of global humanitarian funding—threatens millions of people who depend on it. Organizations like Doctors Without Borders warn that this decision could result in a “humanitarian disaster,” especially for refugees and those needing urgent medical care. Moreover, aid groups now struggle with the complexities created by the funding freeze. Since there is uncertainty over program exemptions, delivering timely assistance has become increasingly difficult. Given the scale of U.S. contributions, filling this gap will be challenging for other donors.

Conclusion

The potential dissolution of USAID has sparked worldwide concern, particularly regarding its humanitarian impact and diplomatic repercussions. As discussions continue within the administration, stakeholders must assess the consequences of these policy changes. Meanwhile, aid organizations, lawmakers, and affected nations await clarity on the future of U.S. foreign assistance.