Mass Layoffs Hit State Department As Trump Administration Reshapes US Diplomacy

In a dramatic shake-up of American diplomacy, the State Department on Friday began laying off over 1,350 U.S.-based employees as part of a sweeping restructuring effort driven by President Donald Trump’s administration. The unprecedented move, which critics say threatens to undermine America’s global influence, comes at a time of mounting international instability.

The layoffs affect 1,107 civil service employees and 246 foreign service officers working domestically, according to internal department communications reviewed by reporters. This marks the first phase of a broader plan to reduce the agency’s U.S. workforce by nearly 3,000 people, including voluntary departures — a significant cut from the department’s roughly 18,000 U.S.-based staff.

A Shift Toward ‘America First’ Diplomacy

In an internal memo sent to staff, the department framed the layoffs as part of an effort to 'streamline domestic operations' and prioritize what it described as core diplomatic functions. The memo stated that reductions were 'carefully tailored' to eliminate redundancies and improve efficiency.

This move aligns with Trump's long-promised goal of reshaping the federal government to reflect his 'America First' foreign policy. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, appointed earlier this year, has echoed that vision, labeling the department 'bloated' and 'bureaucratic,' and calling for a return of power to regional bureaus and overseas embassies.

But critics warn that slashing experienced foreign service officers — many of whom have built careers navigating complex international relations — sends the wrong message at a time when America’s global adversaries are growing bolder.

Global Tensions Rising, U.S. Diplomats Sent Packing

The timing of the layoffs has sparked outrage. The U.S. is currently grappling with Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, persistent instability in the Middle East, and deepening tensions between Israel and Iran. Meanwhile, China continues to expand its global diplomatic and military reach.

“This is one of the most ridiculous decisions that could possibly be made,” said Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. “At a time when China is increasing its diplomatic footprint around the world and establishing an overseas network of military and transportation bases, Russia is continuing its years-long brutal assault of a sovereign country, and the Middle East is careening from crisis to crisis,”

Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) also joined the growing chorus of concern, attending a demonstration outside the State Department to support the departing staff.

Emotional Goodbyes Inside Foggy Bottom

Inside the agency’s Washington headquarters, emotions ran high as hundreds of employees gathered in a spontaneous show of solidarity. Applause echoed through the building’s lobby in what staff called a 'clap-out' — a symbolic farewell for those being let go. Some clutched boxes filled with personal belongings, while others embraced tearful colleagues for one last time.

Outside, supporters lined the sidewalks, waving banners that read, “Thank you, America’s diplomats.” It was a scene that captured both grief and gratitude.

The department had set up multiple “Transition Day Out Processing” centers inside the building. Employees dropped off their government-issued badges, electronics, and documents before their access was cut off at 5 p.m. EDT. A five-page separation checklist circulated earlier in the day outlined the final steps for their exit.

Among those affected were numerous employees from the office responsible for overseeing the resettlement of Afghans who supported U.S. efforts during the 20-year war in Afghanistan. Their termination has sparked particular concern, given the complex and ongoing nature of that mission.

Human rights advocates also expressed alarm over plans to eliminate offices that monitor global conflicts and war crimes, and the proposed dismantling of the senior position responsible for civilian security, democracy, and human rights.

world