Overview
- Chiefs of mission in at least 29 countries were told last week their tours will end in January, according to State Department officials.
- Those affected are career foreign service officers appointed during the Biden administration who remained after an earlier focus on political appointees.
- Africa is most affected with 13 posts, followed by six in Asia and additional changes across Europe, the Middle East, South and Central Asia, and the Western Hemisphere.
- Officials say the diplomats are not being fired and may return to Washington for other assignments if they choose.
- Politico first reported the moves, which have prompted concern from some lawmakers and the American Foreign Service Association.