Senior security officials out as Musk, Trump clash on usaID
The Trump administration has placed two senior security service officials on leave. According to reports from the Associated Press, these officials refused to hand over classified materials to Elon Musk’s teams.
It is reported that members of Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) did not possess the necessary security clearances to access data from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). This agency deals with foreign aid and development, including support for Ukraine.
Two USAID officials, John Vorhees and his deputy Brian McGill, were legally denied access to the information. Nevertheless, on Saturday, DOGE inspectors managed to access classified data. A similar incident occurred the previous day at the Department of State.
Elon Musk, in collaboration with the Trump administration, set up DOGE to explore ways to reduce departmental expenses and limit federal regulations. On Saturday, the USAID website was suspended without explanation.
Democrats argue that Trump lacks the authority to dismantle an independent agency funded by Congress. USAID's efforts are vital for national security, and the United States ranks as the largest donor of humanitarian aid globally.
Musk announces closure
During a discussion held on platform X with US businessman Vivek Ramaswamy and Republican Senator Joni Ernst, Musk stated that USAID is "beyond repair," with US President Donald Trump concurring that the agency should be terminated.
According to Reuters, USAID allocated around £57 billion to international aid in 2023, supporting initiatives such as improving women's access to basic healthcare in conflict areas, providing clean water, combating HIV/AIDS, and promoting anti-corruption measures. The agency's contributions last year accounted for 42% of global humanitarian aid tracked by the UN.
Trump unequivocally endorses Musk's budget management initiatives. On Sunday, when asked whether the billionaire was "performing well," Trump affirmed that the Tesla owner is exceptional at reducing costs.
