This is reported by RBK-Ukraine citing Reuters. Reports have also come from Kontrakty.UA.
Two sources familiar with the discussions informed Western media that such a scenario is being considered by the Trump administration as part of a significant review of how Washington allocates U.S. foreign aid globally.
This week, discussions took place in the U.S. National Security Council regarding the possible transfer of USAID under the State Department, according to a Reuters source familiar with the matter.
A U.S. official also confirmed that relevant steps have been discussed but noted that no final decisions have been made yet.
Politico previously reported on this potential move by the U.S. authorities.
The Trump administration announced that it is conducting a review to ensure that U.S. foreign aid, amounting to tens of billions of dollars worldwide, aligns with the new president's "America First" foreign policy rather than being seen as a "waste of taxpayer money."
The White House is contemplating the issue of ending USAID's independence
One of Reuters' sources indicated that the White House is exploring the legal authorities that Trump could use to issue an executive order to end USAID's independence. It remains unclear whether the U.S. president has the authority to issue such an order bypassing Congress.
The source also relayed that officials from the newly established "Government Efficiency Department," led by billionaire and Trump advisor Elon Musk, have participated in discussions and frequently visited the USAID headquarters in downtown Washington this week.
What consequences will the subordination of USAID to the State Department have?
According to Reuters, if USAID is transferred under the State Department, it is likely to have "dramatic consequences for global relief aid from the world's largest donor."
It is also noted that Trump's freezing of the majority of U.S. foreign aid has already disrupted the development industry, leading to hundreds of layoffs and putting "thousands of other jobs at risk."
As a result of the cessation of foreign aid programs, various initiatives are facing challenges, including field hospitals in Thai refugee camps, demining efforts in combat zones, and the delivery of medical supplies to treat millions suffering from diseases like HIV.
In the fiscal year 2023, the U.S. allocated a total of $72 billion in aid worldwide. The United States provided 42% of all humanitarian aid tracked by the UN in 2024.
It should also be noted that USAID in Ukraine supports humanitarian programs, including the reconstruction of schools, provision of medical services, and repair of critical energy infrastructure.
As previously reported, on January 21, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 90-day suspension of all foreign aid programs to review their alignment with his foreign policy. On January 24, the U.S. State Department issued a "work cessation" order for all existing foreign aid and suspended the issuance of new aid.
It was also reported that the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) branch in Ukraine has also suspended project implementation and funding.
Recently, President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that key humanitarian programs in Ukraine will operate with domestic funding. The head of state explained that this is a necessary step after the U.S. halted funding.