The Trump administration is preparing to significantly downsize the United States’ global diplomatic presence, with plans to shut down nearly 30 embassies and consulates—more than half of them located in Africa.
This move is part of a wider strategy to slash the State Department’s budget by nearly half, which also includes a drastic 75% reduction in foreign aid spending.
An internal government document reveals that the targeted closures include U.S. embassies in countries such as Lesotho, Eritrea, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, The Gambia, and South Sudan. The closures may also affect U.S. consulates in Durban, South Africa, and Douala, Cameroon, with their duties likely shifting to neighboring U.S. missions.
Also read:Luxury Train Collides with Freight Locomotive in Zimbabwe, Several Injured
Critics warn that this reduction in diplomatic outreach could weaken U.S. influence on the African continent, especially at a time when other major powers, notably China, are expanding their engagement in the region. They also caution that the move could harm diplomatic relationships, limit economic collaboration, and reduce support for democratic governance.
The administration is also considering scaling back its diplomatic presence in parts of Europe and Asia, including shutting embassies in Malta and Luxembourg, as part of its broader efforts to cut federal spending and streamline operations.
