Trump Orders Major Overhaul of U.S. Diplomatic Posts

Picture Credit: by Reuters

The Trump administration has ordered the recall of nearly 30 career diplomats, including the United States ambassador to Sri Lanka, as part of a broader effort to realign America’s diplomatic corps with President Donald Trump’s “America First” agenda. The move signals a significant reshaping of U.S. foreign representation early in Trump’s second term and has raised concerns within diplomatic and political circles.

According to two State Department officials, chiefs of mission in at least 29 countries were informed last week that their assignments would end in January. All of the affected ambassadors had assumed their posts during the Biden administration but had initially survived an earlier shakeup that largely targeted political appointees. Formal notices of their impending departures were issued from Washington on Wednesday.

While ambassadors typically serve at the pleasure of the president for terms lasting three to four years, the scope and timing of the recalls have drawn attention. Those removed are expected to return to Washington and may take up other State Department roles if they choose. In response to criticism, the department described the recalls as a routine transition, emphasizing that ambassadors act as the president’s personal representatives abroad and are expected to fully advance the administration’s priorities.

Picture Credit: by turkiyetoday

Africa has been the most affected region, accounting for 13 ambassadorial recalls, followed by six in the Asia-Pacific region and four in Europe. Two ambassadors each are being recalled from the Middle East, South Asia, and the Western Hemisphere. In South Asia, the move impacts both Nepal and Sri Lanka, underscoring the breadth of the changes.

The decision was first reported by Politico and has prompted unease among some lawmakers and the union representing U.S. diplomats, who warn that the move could disrupt continuity in foreign policy and strain relationships with key partners. As the administration presses ahead, the recalls highlight the central role loyalty and alignment play in Trump’s vision of American diplomacy abroad.