U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio was appointed this monday as Acting Director of the Agency for International Development (USAID), at a time of uncertainty for the institution. The appointment seeks to ensure the agency’s alignment with the “America First” policy promoted by President Donald Trump.
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According to Agencia EFE, the decision comes after tycoon Elon Musk announced that Trump has agreed to dismantle USAID, which has generated concern among the staff. The workers received an email informing them that they should stay at home, while the agency’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. would remain closed this february 3.
Over the weekend, USAID’s website and social networks were deactivated, reinforcing the perception of a structural change in its operation. The State Department confirmed Rubio’s appointment in an official statement, in which it noted that the move seeks to improve control and oversight of the agency’s activities.
Despite the uncertainty, the U.S. administration has assured that the transition will be orderly and in accordance with the principles of the new government strategy. With Rubio’s appointment, it is expected that Usaid will define its future within a framework of adjustments that could transform its role in international cooperation.