- विज्ञापन -
Washington: Elon Musk labeled the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) a “criminal organization” in a post on X, stating that it is “time for it to die.” His remarks followed reports that senior USAID officials were placed on leave after attempting to block Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) personnel from accessing the agency’s systems.
Musk’s comments come amid speculation that former President Donald Trump intends to dissolve USAID, an independent federal agency, and merge it with the State Department. White House Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, Stephen Miller, has criticized USAID’s workforce for being predominantly Democratic.
The situation escalated when DOGE officials reportedly tried to gain physical access to USAID’s headquarters in Washington, D.C., but were obstructed by USAID staff. After threats of involving law enforcement, DOGE personnel eventually gained entry. Sources indicated that the DOGE officials sought access to security systems, personal files, and potentially classified information, which requires specific security clearances.
Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, expressed serious concerns over the unauthorized access to classified areas and personal data, emphasizing the need for immediate answers regarding national security implications. Katie Miller, a DOGE appointee, asserted that no classified information was accessed without the proper clearances.
In a related development, USAID’s website went offline, replaced by a new page on the State Department’s site, and the agency’s X account was also deactivated. Shortly after taking office on January 20, Trump issued an executive order halting all foreign aid for 90 days, causing significant disruption within the agency. Concerns have been raised about the legality of Trump eliminating a federal agency without Congressional consultation. Established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy, USAID plays a crucial role in global humanitarian efforts, providing billions in aid to combat poverty, disease, and disasters. Recently, around 60 senior USAID staff were put on leave due to accusations of trying to bypass the foreign aid executive order.
