Washington D.C( The COW News Digital)In a sweeping move following a court ruling in its favor, the Trump administration has terminated over 1,350 employees from the U.S. Department of State. The decision, announced through an official memorandum signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, affects 1,107 civil service workers and 246 foreign service officers.
The department described the dismissals as part of a “restructuring initiative” aligned with former President Donald Trump’s revived “America First” agenda during his second term in office. The restructuring involves dissolving several offices related to human rights, democracy promotion, and refugee affairs. Responsibilities previously held by those departments will now be delegated to regional bureaus.
An internal memo distributed to staff emphasized that the layoffs aim to “streamline diplomatic priorities” and enhance the effectiveness of domestic operations. It stated that the move would eliminate redundant functions, close overlapping offices, and reduce workforce excess to reallocate resources efficiently.
The mass dismissal sent shockwaves through the diplomatic corps. Emotional scenes unfolded at the State Department headquarters, where dozens of employees gathered in the lobby to applaud their departing colleagues. Many were seen embracing, some with tears in their eyes, holding boxes containing personal belongings.
This is one of the largest layoffs in the department’s history, drawing both internal and external criticism. Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen was present outside the building in solidarity with affected workers. Employees held placards reading, “Thank You, American Diplomats,” as a show of support for their colleagues.
Critics argue the move undermines American diplomatic presence and global leadership at a critical time. “This is not a reorganization — it’s a demolition of our global values and institutional memory,” said a former State Department official who requested anonymity.
Supporters of the administration, however, view it as a bold step toward minimizing bureaucratic inefficiencies and realigning foreign policy with domestic interests.
The White House has yet to release a formal statement, but insiders suggest more departmental overhauls could follow in other federal agencies under the reenergized “America First” platform.
The terminations have taken immediate effect, and severance processes are underway. Several of the affected employees are reportedly considering legal action, claiming wrongful termination or violation of federal employment protections.
