The Trump administration is proposing the closure of nearly 30 U.S. embassies and consulates, mainly in Africa, as part of a plan to reduce the State Department's budget by 50% and cut foreign aid by 75%. Critics argue this could weaken U.S. influence, particularly in Africa, as global powers like China expand their presence.

The Trump administration is contemplating a significant reduction in the United States' global diplomatic presence, with a proposal to close nearly 30 embassies and consulates, more than half of which are located in Africa. This move is part of a broader initiative to slash the State Department's budget by almost 50%, which includes a proposal to reduce foreign aid by approximately 75%.

An internal document from the State Department outlines that the proposed closures would impact several embassies in Africa, including those in Lesotho, Eritrea, the Central African Republic, the Republic of Congo, The Gambia, and South Sudan. Furthermore, consulates in Durban, South Africa, and Douala, Cameroon, are also marked for closure, with plans to transfer their functions to neighboring countries.

Critics of the plan raise concerns that shrinking the U.S. diplomatic presence in Africa could diminish American influence on the continent, especially as other global powers, such as China, continue to expand their foothold. They warn that these closures could hamper diplomatic relations, economic partnerships, and the promotion of democratic values in these regions.

In addition to the potential African closures, the administration's plan includes the possibility of shutting down U.S. embassies in European countries such as Malta and Luxembourg, as well as consulates in various cities across Europe and Asia. These proposed changes are part of a broader effort to streamline government operations and cut federal spending.