Trump administration orders ‘abrupt’ recall of dozens of career diplomats: Source

The Trump administration is making significant changes at the U.S. State Department by recalling dozens of career diplomats from overseas posts in the coming month. According to a reliable source, more than two dozen senior diplomats have been notified that they must leave their roles by mid-January.

The American Foreign Service Association, which represents U.S. foreign service and career diplomats, expressed concern over the abrupt removal of these diplomats without providing any explanation. The affected diplomats were instructed to vacate their posts by Jan. 15 or 16.

The recall primarily impacts U.S. diplomatic posts in Africa, but it also affects posts in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Western Hemisphere. While the State Department declined to comment on specific numbers or ambassadors affected, the AFSA confirmed that there is no official list of recalled ambassadors, with various unverified lists circulating.

A spokesperson for AFSA criticized the recall, stating that it deviates from longstanding norms and lacks transparency. The spokesperson emphasized that career diplomats and ambassadors are typically not recalled in such a manner. The sudden removal of senior diplomats without cause was described as undermining U.S. credibility abroad and sending a concerning signal to career foreign service officers.

The recall is part of the Trump administration’s efforts to realign the State Department with its “America First” priorities. This move follows previous layoffs of over 1,300 officials and 240 foreign service officers earlier this year as part of a reorganization aimed at increasing efficiency and reducing government size.

The AFSA condemned the recall as a threat to professional independence and transparency within the Foreign Service. They highlighted the negative impact on morale, effectiveness, and U.S. credibility abroad. The association is working to confirm the names of recalled diplomats through direct contacts.

In conclusion, the abrupt recall of career diplomats from overseas posts represents a significant shakeup at the U.S. State Department. The lack of transparency and process surrounding the recall has raised concerns among diplomatic circles and organizations like the AFSA. The impact of these changes on U.S. foreign policy and diplomatic relations remains to be seen.