Trump Administration Begins Layoffs of Over 1,350 State Department Employees

Trump Administration Begins Layoffs of Over 1,350 State Department Employees

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

Washington (Reuters) – The U.S. State Department on Friday began laying off more than 1,350 employees in one of the largest reorganizations in its history. The move is part of President Donald Trump’s drive to reshape American diplomacy under his “America First” agenda, sparking fierce criticism from lawmakers and foreign policy experts.

The mass firings target 1,107 civil service workers and 246 foreign service officers based in the United States. Officials said the cuts are designed to streamline the department and eliminate “non-core” and redundant functions.

An internal notice sent to staff described the layoffs as part of an effort to “focus on diplomatic priorities” by reducing duplication and improving efficiency. Including voluntary departures, the total workforce reduction is projected to approach 3,000 positions, impacting roughly 17% of the department’s 18,000 domestic employees.

The Trump administration has portrayed the shake-up as essential to realigning U.S. foreign policy priorities. Critics, however, warn the cuts will weaken America’s diplomatic reach at a moment of mounting global crises.

Lawmakers and former diplomats condemned the move as dangerously shortsighted. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) called it “one of the most reckless decisions possible,” especially given growing challenges from China, Russia, and Middle East instability.

Experts say the purge of experienced diplomats could hamper the U.S.’s ability to negotiate, manage conflicts, and counter rising threats.

At the State Department building in Washington, dozens of employees gathered to clap out their departing colleagues in emotional farewell scenes. Many hugged, cried, and carried boxes of personal belongings as they left.

Outside, supporters waved banners reading “Thank You America’s Diplomats.” Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) attended to show solidarity with those losing their jobs.

Inside the building, designated “Transition Day Outprocessing” centers were set up to collect government-issued badges, laptops, and phones. Tables featured bottled water and tissue boxes, reflecting the somber mood.

Affected employees received a five-page separation checklist informing them they would lose building and email access by 5 p.m. EDT on Friday.

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