Diplomats Face Sudden Exit: A Shift in US Foreign Policy

The Trump administration is making big changes. It is asking many experienced diplomats to leave their jobs. These diplomats were working in different countries. They were appointed during the Biden administration. The diplomats serve at the president's pleasure. But usually, they stay for about three to four years. Political appointees often leave when a new administration takes over. However, career diplomats usually stay longer. A State Department official said this is a normal process. They believe it's the president's right to have people who support his agenda. But the official did not confirm how many diplomats are leaving or where they were posted. Former diplomats say this is not normal. They say it has never happened before in the 101-year history of the US Foreign Service. They worry that many embassies will not have confirmed ambassadors. This could be bad for US relations with other countries.The American Foreign Service Association (AFSA) said they received reports about these recalls. They said no explanation was given. AFSA warned that removing these diplomats sends a bad message. It tells allies that US commitments may change with politics. The diplomats have a limited time to find new jobs. If they can't, they will have to retire. Most of the affected diplomats are in Africa, but others are in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Western Hemisphere. This is not the first big change in the State Department. Earlier this year, more than 1, 300 officials lost their jobs. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has been making big changes. He wants to focus on the Trump administration's priorities. This includes reducing immigration and promoting a specific worldview. A recent report by AFSA found that morale among diplomats has dropped. Many are thinking about leaving early. But Rubio downplayed these findings. He said diplomats are more empowered now. He believes these changes will have long-term benefits.