The United States, starting from July 1, 2025, is cancelling contracts with several employees working under the USAID (United States Agency for International Development) projects in Ukraine. This was reported by the TASS agency, relying on official documents on the US government procurement portal, writes "Zamon.uz".
The individuals being laid off are specialists who have worked in the humanitarian and development sectors. Among them are a senior advisor on economic growth, an expert on global health security, a coordinator for donors, and many other skilled professionals. Moreover, some were hired during the previous presidency of Donald Trump.
The contracts with the employees were of various durations and amounts. The highest value contract – belonging to a senior advisor on communications – was worth 455,000 US dollars.
The reason for the layoffs is cited in the official documents as "for the benefit of the government." This phrase is used as a standard by the efficiency improvement agency under the control of Elon Musk. Based on this rationale, the dismissed employees might be entitled to compensation, although this depends on the contractual details.
Previously, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized the US foreign aid programs, stating that "many of them are ineffective" and only about 12 percent of funds actually reach those in real need.
It is still unclear how this decision will affect the development programs in collaboration with Ukraine, but it indicates a reduction in USAID projects.
