USA, RAKYAT NEWS – The headquarters of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) in Washington D.C. was officially shut down, following confirmation from Elon Musk, head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), that President Donald Trump had given the green light for the closure. This decision marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and government operations.

The closure occurred just a few blocks away from the White House, drawing considerable attention from the media and the public. Journalists gathered near the USAID building to await a statement from Democratic lawmakers who were strongly opposed to the shutdown of an agency that managed more than $40 billion in aid during the fiscal year 2023.

Protests erupted outside the building, with demonstrators holding signs reading “America, Seriously? Dictator?” and “What’s Next?” These protests reflect growing concerns over the government’s move and its potential global implications, especially in light of the agency’s role in U.S. foreign aid efforts.

Former USAID employees also gathered near the headquarters, expressing uncertainty about their future. One former staff member shared, “I can’t believe it; my life is completely different than it was last week. This morning, I applied for a new job. This is my reality now.”

Reports indicate that the Trump administration placed dozens of senior USAID officials on leave after the United States ceased its foreign aid programs. This move has led to significant disruptions in the operations of USAID, with many questioning the long-term impact on U.S. international relations.

On Sunday, February 2, Elon Musk publicly referred to USAID as a “criminal organization,” adding that it was time for the agency to “die.” His remarks have sparked heated debates about the role of government agencies in foreign aid and the broader implications of their operations.

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