Trump Administration Considers Shutting Down Nearly 30 U.S. Diplomatic Missions: Report
The Trump administration is reportedly evaluating a plan to close close to 30 U.S. embassies and consulates across the globe as part of a broader push to streamline America’s international presence and reduce federal government expenditures, according to a report released Tuesday.
An internal document from the State Department, cited by CNN, outlines recommendations from the undersecretary for management. The proposal includes the closure of 10 embassies and 17 consulates, with many of the targeted locations situated in Europe and Africa.
Among the diplomatic posts considered for closure are embassies in countries such as Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, the Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan. Consulates in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, South Africa, South Korea, and Bosnia and Herzegovina are also reportedly on the list.
The plan suggests that responsibilities of these facilities would be redistributed to nearby diplomatic missions, although it remains uncertain whether Secretary of State Marco Rubio has endorsed the proposal.
In addition to closures, the document reportedly recommends downsizing operations in countries like Iraq and Somalia. It also proposes introducing smaller, streamlined “FLEX-style” posts with limited staff and functions. Consular operations in countries such as Japan and Canada may also be consolidated into more centralized hubs.
When questioned about the reported changes, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to comment on the authenticity of the leaked document or provide additional details.
“I recommend directing those inquiries to the White House and the President, as discussions on the budget are ongoing,” Bruce said during a press briefing.
She added, “We often see early or inaccurate reporting that stems from leaked materials whose origins are unclear.”
