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Trump Administration Proposes Nearly 50% Cut to State Department and USAID Budget

The preliminary plan includes dismantling USAID, closing 27 diplomatic missions, and slashing funding for humanitarian aid, global health, and international organizations.

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The seal of the United States Department of State is seen in Washington, U.S., January 26, 2017. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts/File Photo
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Overview

  • The proposed fiscal 2026 budget would reduce combined State Department and USAID funding by $27 billion, leaving $28.4 billion, a nearly 50% cut from 2025 levels.
  • Plans include dismantling USAID as an independent agency and fully merging its functions into the State Department.
  • The proposal calls for closing 10 embassies and 17 consulates, primarily in Africa and Europe, and downsizing several other diplomatic missions.
  • Funding for humanitarian assistance and global health programs would be cut by 54% and 55%, respectively, with nearly 90% of support for international organizations like the UN and NATO eliminated.
  • The plan faces strong bipartisan opposition in Congress, with critics warning it could undermine U.S. global leadership and create opportunities for adversaries like China and Russia.