The United States Agency for International Development (USAid) finds itself in a state of turmoil after former President Donald Trump dismissed Paul Martin, the agency's inspector general, on Tuesday. Martin, appointed by President Joe Biden in December 2023, was "removed from his position," according to a USAid official speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity. This move comes in the wake of Trump's previous dismissal of 18 inspectors general and a controversial decision to place hundreds of USAid employees on administrative leave.
With approximately 10,000 staff members, two-thirds of whom are stationed at over 60 missions worldwide, USAid plays a crucial role in global humanitarian efforts. In 2024, its budget accounted for 42% of the humanitarian aid tracked by the United Nations, although it comprises less than 1% of the US federal budget. The agency's sudden dismantling has raised concerns about its ability to manage and ensure that aid funds do not fall into the wrong hands, especially in conflict zones like Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon, Pakistan, Yemen, Syria, the West Bank, and Gaza.
Paul Martin had been integral to ensuring the safe usage of US taxpayer funds, particularly in volatile regions. He noted that "widespread staffing reductions across the agency … coupled with uncertainty about the scope of foreign assistance waivers and permissible communications with implementers," have severely degraded USAid’s capacity to distribute and safeguard humanitarian assistance. The agency has already lost almost all ability to track $8.2 billion in unspent aid, further complicating its mission.
The White House has yet to provide a clear rationale for the recent firings at USAid. The decision comes shortly after Trump called for nearly all of the agency's employees to be placed on administrative leave—a move temporarily blocked by a judge last Friday. This administrative chaos has halted USAid's operations, putting $489 million worth of food assistance at risk of spoilage or loss as supplies languish at ports, in transit, and in warehouses.
The shuttering of USAid marks one of the initial actions taken by Elon Musk and the newly formed "department of government efficiency," a White House team established by Trump. Following an executive order signed by Trump, federal agencies are required to cooperate with Musk's team, dubbed "Doge," as it undertakes significant cuts to federal staffing.
USAid's operational paralysis raises significant questions about the future of US humanitarian assistance abroad. The agency's inability to track substantial funds and ensure aid reaches its intended destinations could have dire implications for millions who depend on this support. Moreover, the lack of clarity from the White House only adds to the concern surrounding USAid's future effectiveness and accountability.