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The United States government, under the administration of President Donald Trump, is considering closing approximately 30 embassies and consulates in various regions around the world.
This measure, driven by an internal memo from the State Department, is part of a strategy to reduce federal spending and reorganize the country's diplomatic presence, reported The New York Times.
According to the proposed plan, the closure of 10 embassies and 17 consulates is included, primarily in Europe and Africa, although locations in Asia and the Caribbean are also included.
Among the embassies that could close are those located in Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, the Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan.
As for the consulates, the list includes five in France, two in Germany, two in Bosnia and Herzegovina, one in the United Kingdom, one in South Africa, and one in South Korea.
The report also suggests reducing or consolidating staff from other missions abroad, which could impact the ability of the United States to maintain diplomatic relations and provide consular services in those regions.
These proposals align with the plans of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), backed by entrepreneur Elon Musk, which aims to drastically cut administration spending through the closure of offices and programs, and the mass dismissal of federal employees.
The implementation of this measure would affect American citizens abroad and could weaken ties with allies, as well as complicate essential processes such as obtaining passports, visas, and consular assistance.
Foreign policy experts warn that a reduction in diplomatic offices would diminish the ability to influence powers like China and Russia
So far, the State Department has not issued any official comments regarding the leaked document
Frequently Asked Questions about the Closure of Embassies and Consulates by the United States
Why does the United States consider closing embassies and consulates?
The closure of embassies and consulates is part of a strategy by the Trump Administration to reduce federal spending and reorganize the country’s diplomatic presence. This decision aims to curb government waste, aligning with the plans of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) led by Elon Musk, who has advocated for significant cuts in federal administration.
Which regions will be most affected by the closure of U.S. embassies and consulates?
The regions most affected will primarily be Europe and Africa, although locations in Asia and the Caribbean are also included. Among the specific embassies and consulates that may close are those in Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, the Republic of the Congo, the Central African Republic, South Sudan, and several consulates in France, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and South Korea.
How will the closure of embassies and consulates affect American citizens abroad?
The implementation of this measure could impact American citizens abroad by complicating essential processes such as obtaining passports, visas, and consular assistance. Additionally, the reduction or consolidation of staff at other missions abroad could weaken diplomatic ties and affect the ability of the United States to maintain international relations.
What criticism has the Trump administration received for its plan to close embassies?
Foreign policy experts warn that reducing diplomatic offices would diminish the United States' capacity to influence powers like China and Russia. Additionally, critics argue that these measures could weaken relationships with allies and complicate the protection of American citizens' rights abroad.
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