Unions representing US government workers have taken legal action against the Trump administration, challenging its attempts to dismantle the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

The lawsuit, filed in a Washington D.C. federal court, argues that only Congress has the authority to dissolve the agency, making the Trump administration’s actions “unconstitutional and illegal”.

The move comes as the Trump administration issued a directive placing all USAID direct hire personnel on administrative leave globally, effective Friday at midnight. This decision has sparked widespread concern, with senior staff warning of a “global humanitarian crisis” and significant disruptions to crucial aid programs.

According to a Congressional report, the biggest recipients of USAID funds include Ukraine, Ethiopia, Jordan, and Yemen. The agency’s work in these countries, as well as others, is now at risk due to the Trump administration’s actions.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has defended the administration’s decision, stating that employees overseas have options, including extending their stay beyond the 30-day window to return to the US. However, union representatives and USAID employees have expressed outrage and concern over the sudden and drastic changes.

The lawsuit seeks to block the Trump administration’s efforts to shut down USAID operations, restore funding, and reopen the agency’s offices. As the situation unfolds, the future of USAID and its critical aid programs hangs in the balance.