The Trump administration is considering closing nearly 30 U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide as part of a significant effort to reduce the federal government’s overseas presence, reported by The Nation. An internal State Department document outlines recommendations to shut down 10 embassies and 17 consulates, primarily located in Europe and Africa. Embassies in countries such as Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, the Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan are among those identified for closure. Consulates in France, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the United Kingdom, South Africa, and South Korea are also on the list.
The proposed closures aim to consolidate diplomatic efforts and reduce costs. Responsibilities of the closed missions would be transferred to nearby embassies or consulates. Additionally, the State Department plans to reduce its diplomatic footprint in countries like Iraq and Somalia and resize other missions. This includes creating “FLEX-style light footprint posts” with limited staff and consolidating consulate support into specialized units at larger missions in countries such as Japan and Canada.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio has not yet approved the proposed changes. When asked about the potential closures, State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to confirm the document’s authenticity or provide specifics. She suggested that inquiries be directed to the White House and the President as they continue to work on their budget plan.
The administration’s broader plan includes a significant reduction in the State Department’s budget, proposing to cut it by nearly half for the fiscal year 2026. This would involve dismantling the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and returning approximately $20 billion in previously allocated funds to the Treasury. The proposed budget cuts have raised concerns among critics who argue that such reductions could undermine American leadership abroad and impact diplomatic relations.
While the plan is still under review and has not been finalized, it signals a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy and diplomatic engagement under the Trump administration. The potential closures and budget cuts are part of a broader initiative to streamline government operations and reduce federal spending.
