The Trump administration plans to shut down nearly 30 U.S. embassies and consulates, aiming to cut costs and reduce America’s global diplomatic footprint.
A CNN report, citing an internal State Department document, says embassies in Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, Lesotho, and South Sudan are on the list. A consulate in South Africa may also close.
Cost-Cutting Measures Target Africa, Europe, and Asia
The document recommends closing 10 embassies and 17 consulates, mostly in Africa, Europe, and Asia. Targets include:
- Embassies in Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, South Sudan
- Five consulates in France
- Two in Germany
- Two in Bosnia and Herzegovina
- One each in the United Kingdom, South Africa, and South Korea
The plan is part of a larger government overhaul, reportedly driven by the Elon Musk-backed Department of Government Efficiency. It seeks to shrink federal agencies, including the State Department.
U.S. May Scale Back in Somalia, Iraq
The document also suggests cutting back U.S. operations in Somalia and Iraq, two key locations in America’s counterterrorism strategy.
So far, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has not confirmed the proposal. The State Department declined to comment on the leak.
Critics Warn of Global Impact
Foreign policy experts say closing these posts could weaken U.S. influence, especially in unstable regions. Reduced diplomatic presence might limit America’s ability to respond to conflicts, support allies, and engage in development work.
The world now waits to see if the administration will follow through.
