The U.S. State Department has begun laying off more than 1,300 employees as part of a major restructuring initiative backed by the Trump administration. Notifications went out late Friday, impacting over 1,100 civil servants and around 250 members of the Foreign Service. The decision follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that gave federal agencies more authority to downsize staff and coincides with the controversial merger of USAID into the State Department. The reorganization amounts to roughly 15% of the domestic workforce, prompting concern across diplomatic and national security circles.
Veteran diplomats and policy experts have expressed alarm over the move, warning it could dramatically reduce the department’s ability to navigate global challenges. More than 130 former senior officials signed a letter condemning the cuts, citing the loss of institutional expertise and weakening of U.S. diplomatic strength at a time of increased geopolitical tension. Many fear the reductions will hinder America’s influence abroad, particularly as rival powers like China expand their international presence. Offices handling key issues—such as global women’s rights—are reportedly among those being disbanded.
In addition to the layoffs themselves, the process has been marred by confusion. Some employees received erroneous termination emails, creating further disruption and uncertainty within the department. Internal morale has taken a hit, and unions representing federal workers are demanding more transparency and accountability in how the layoffs are being managed. While the administration argues the overhaul will lead to greater efficiency, critics insist it will do long-term damage to the country’s diplomatic core.
