USAID removed three workers while they were helping earthquake victims in Myanmar. The sudden move during an active mission sparked public concern. Meanwhile, the U.S. response lags behind as other nations act swiftly.
USAID Removes Workers During Active Relief Effort
Three aid workers from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) lost their jobs while helping earthquake survivors in Myanmar. These workers had been sleeping outside and working long hours to support people in need. Despite their commitment, USAID cut them off during their mission.
Former USAID official Marcia Wong confirmed the firings. She called the decision “deeply troubling” and added that the workers had no warning. They had expected to stay in the field for weeks, but they had to leave suddenly.
The earthquake had hit several regions hard. Entire towns faced destruction. Many families lost their homes, and thousands needed urgent help. The workers helped set up shelters and bring clean water to far-off areas. Their exit caused delays in aid, leaving teams short-handed when help mattered most.
Budget Cuts Blamed for Sudden Firings
USAID explained that budget cuts led to the job losses. A group within the agency called the “Doge” task force pushed for these changes. Inspired by Elon Musk’s cost-cutting ideas, this group aims to reduce waste and speed up operations.
However, critics questioned the timing. Congress had already approved the funds for the Myanmar mission. There was no financial emergency. Yet, the agency still let workers go.
Legal experts are now reviewing the case. Some say these firings may break U.S. labor laws. Several lawyers are preparing lawsuits to challenge the decision. One lawyer said, “You can’t just drop someone in the middle of a disaster zone. That puts lives at risk.”
So far, USAID has not responded to those legal claims. In the meantime, aid teams must find ways to manage without key staff.
Marco Rubio Justifies the Decision
Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the layoffs during a speech in Brussels. He said Myanmar’s military government had blocked many aid efforts. According to him, this made it hard for U.S. teams to do their jobs.
“We can’t keep carrying the world’s burden alone,” Rubio said. “Other countries must share the load.”
Some people agreed with him. They believe the U.S. has taken on too much. But many others felt the decision was careless. Pulling workers out during a crisis sends the wrong message, they argued.
While the U.S. slows down, other nations are speeding up. China, India, and Russia sent food, doctors, and rescue teams to Myanmar within days. Their quick action stands in sharp contrast to the U.S. delay.
Aid Groups Sound the Alarm
Nonprofit groups and field experts are now raising concerns. Many say this shows a wider shift in U.S. policy. In past years, USAID led global aid responses. But now, it seems the U.S. is stepping back.
Dr. Janet Lee, a volunteer doctor from the U.S., shared her view. “We used to lead by example. Now we’re watching others take over,” she said.
Inside USAID, morale continues to drop. Workers fear that more cuts will come. Some have started looking for new jobs. Others want to leave public service altogether.
These moves are hurting the agency’s ability to act fast. One aid worker said, “When disaster strikes, we need strong teams. Right now, we’re losing them.”
A Sign of Bigger Changes?
Experts believe the firings may reflect a larger trend. The U.S. may rely more on private firms or allies in future aid missions. This shift would change how America responds to disasters.
The Doge team’s growing role adds to this theory. Their focus on speed and savings may help in business, but many say it’s risky in relief work. People need help, not business plans.
Some lawmakers have taken notice. They want answers from USAID and the State Department. At least two senators have called for an official review.
Back in Myanmar, thousands still need help. Their towns lie in ruins. Food and medicine remain scarce. As days pass, the lack of U.S. aid becomes more clear.
While other countries send help by the hour, U.S. teams struggle with red tape and missing staff. It is unclear when, or if, full support will return.