USAID Official Placed on Leave Amid Memo Controversy as U.S. Halts Cyber Operations Against Russia, Raising Concerns Over Foreign Aid and Global Health Impact

A senior official from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been placed on administrative leave following the release of a memo that challenges the Trump administration’s handling of foreign aid. The memo, authored by Nicholas Enrich, USAID’s acting assistant administrator for global health, alleges that the administration failed to deliver critical humanitarian assistance, contradicting statements made by Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Rubio had previously asserted that such aid was not affected by a freeze on foreign aid.

In a related development, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has directed the U.S. Cyber Command to cease offensive cyber operations and information campaigns targeting Russia. This decision was confirmed by a U.S. official familiar with the situation, who emphasized that the safety of military personnel, including in cyberspace, remains a top priority for Secretary Hegseth. The order was reportedly issued to Air Force General Tim Haugh, the head of the command, in late February. The duration of this halt in operations remains uncertain.

The memos released by Enrich highlight significant impacts on global health, suggesting that the lack of aid could have severe consequences for hundreds of thousands of individuals. Despite the gravity of these claims, a senior U.S. defense official declined to comment on the specifics of the decision, citing operational security concerns. The revelations have sparked discussions about the broader implications of the administration’s foreign aid policies and their effects on global health initiatives.

As the situation unfolds, the actions of both USAID and the Department of Defense are under scrutiny. The developments raise questions about the balance between national security, foreign policy, and humanitarian responsibilities. Observers are closely monitoring how these decisions will influence U.S. relations with other countries and the ongoing efforts to address global health challenges.