The American Foreign Service Association has criticized the proposed cuts as 'reckless and dangerous,' warning they could empower adversaries like China and Russia.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has not directly commented on the proposed cuts but recently canceled 139 grants worth $214 million, indicating a shift in funding priorities.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen has expressed deep concern over the proposed cuts, warning that they could compromise U.S. security and global influence.

Concerns are rising among State Department officials regarding the potential impact of these cuts on U.S. security and diplomatic relations, especially with the possibility of closing at least 27 missions, including 10 embassies.

The final budget proposal is expected to be presented to Congress by late April 2025, where it will face scrutiny and potential bipartisan opposition.

On April 15, 2025, reports emerged that President Trump plans to cut the State Department's budget by nearly 50%, reducing it to approximately $28.4 billion for the fiscal year 2026.

These drastic budget cuts are part of Trump's broader strategy to reshape U.S. foreign relations and reduce government spending, although they face significant opposition from both Democrats and some Republicans.

The proposed budget includes severe reductions in foreign assistance funding, with humanitarian assistance expected to drop by 54% and global health funding by 55%, while refugee and immigration programs would also be cut.

The administration is requesting Congress to approve around $20 billion in rescissions, which would return unspent budget allocations to the Treasury.

An unnamed senior U.S. official described the budget proposal as 'aggressive' in its cost-cutting measures, reminiscent of previous efforts during Trump's first term.

If approved, these budget cuts would significantly impact diplomatic missions and staff, further limiting the U.S.'s international engagement.

The State Department has yet to publicly outline its plans for downsizing, as agencies prepare their reorganization proposals in response to the proposed budget cuts.