Elon Musk Faces Scrutiny Over USAID Disruptions, Staff Recall

Elon Musk's recent attacks on the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) have intensified, with him labeling the agency as 'evil' and a 'criminal organization.' This criticism coincides with a significant operational disruption at USAID, where nearly all employees are being placed on leave as part of a broader initiative by Musk's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) to control U.S. Treasury payment systems and block funds to the agency. Concerns have emerged among lawmakers regarding the potential misuse of Congressionally designated funds, which are critical for global humanitarian efforts. Reports indicate that Musk has pressured USAID officials into granting his aides access to sensitive databases without proper security clearances, raising alarms about national security and employee safety. Amidst this turmoil, federal officials have expressed fears that these actions could reverse humanitarian progress in over 100 countries. The escalating tensions reflect a broader battle over foreign aid and its role in U.S. national security policy.