A leaked State Department document suggests the Trump administration is weighing the closure of 10 US embassies and 17 consulates worldwide. The move, part of a significant downsizing of the federal government, is reportedly being driven by the Elon Musk-backed Department of Government Efficiency. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s approval on the plan is yet unclear.
Targeted Countries and Regions
The proposed closures span multiple continents, including Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean. Embassies in Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, the Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, and South Sudan are listed, along with consulates in France, Germany, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the UK, South Korea, and others. The plan suggests neighboring diplomatic posts would absorb responsibilities from the closed missions.
Diplomatic Footprint in Key Nations to Shrink
Reductions are also proposed for critical missions in Somalia and Iraq—both considered essential to US counterterrorism strategy. Additionally, the document mentions resizing posts in countries like Japan and Canada, proposing centralized support units to manage consular services in large missions.
Shift to Minimalist Diplomatic Model
The document outlines a potential transition to “FLEX-style light footprint posts” with limited staff and narrowly focused functions. It also recommends “dual-hatted leadership” for US representatives managing multiple roles across missions such as OECD and UNESCO in Paris.
Lack of Clarity and Official Response
State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce declined to confirm the authenticity or status of the document. She redirected queries to the White House, noting many early reports are based on leaked or incomplete information. So far, ambassadorial nominations have been announced only for Malta and Luxembourg—two embassies on the closure list.
Diplomatic Concerns on the Rise
Embassies and consulates serve vital roles—from processing visas and helping US citizens abroad to collecting intelligence and countering geopolitical rivals like China. Experts warn that reducing these outposts may hinder the US’ global influence and international presence at a critical time.
Conclusion
If finalized, this move would mark one of the largest contractions of America’s diplomatic network in decades. With a broader restructuring looming, the world watches closely as the US redefines its diplomatic engagement model for the 21st century.
