Washington/Beijing, February 19, 2025 – The United States is reportedly preparing to reduce the size of its diplomatic mission in China by as much as 10%, according to the South China Morning Post.
The move, which could affect American diplomats stationed in mainland China and Hong Kong—as well as local employees—is said to be unprecedented, with affected staff expected to receive notice as early as Friday.
The proposed downsizing would impact the U.S. Embassy in Beijing along with consulates in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang, and Wuhan, as well as the consulate in Hong Kong. While it remains unclear whether those laid off might be reassigned to other diplomatic posts, the reports indicate that layoffs are a likely outcome.
Two sources familiar with the situation told Reuters that the leadership of the mission in China had sent a message to embassy staff refuting the SCMP report. Embassy spokespeople did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and the U.S. State Department also declined to comment on the matter.
This potential cut is part of a broader effort under President Donald Trump’s administration to overhaul the U.S. diplomatic corps. Last week, similar staff reductions were reportedly requested at U.S. embassies worldwide as the administration seeks to trim spending deemed wasteful by Trump and his ally, billionaire Elon Musk.
The U.S. diplomatic mission in China is one of the largest in the world, with more than 1,300 American and locally hired staff representing nearly 50 federal agencies operating out of a 10-acre complex in Beijing. Any significant reduction in this workforce could have far-reaching implications for U.S.-China relations and the ability of the embassy to manage its extensive portfolio in the region.
The decision, if implemented, underscores the Trump administration's continuing efforts to streamline U.S. government operations amid ongoing budgetary and strategic challenges.
Boston, February 19, 2025 – In a powerful display of national pride and defiance, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau used Canada’s recent win in the 4 Nations Face-Off hockey final as a platform to send a clear message to U.S. President Donald Trump.
Feb 19 (Reuters) - Elon Musk's X social media platform is in talks to raise money from investors at a $44 billion valuation, Bloomberg News reported on Wednesday, citing people familiar with the matter.
Washington, D.C., February 19, 2025 – U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Air Force One that he is in discussions with Chinese officials regarding TikTok, as the United States seeks to broker a sale of the popular social media app, Reuters reported.
South Korea and the U.S. conducted a joint air drill with a B-1B bomber, while North Korea criticized the U.S.-Australia nuclear deal.
Pope Francis is showing improvement, the Vatican said, as the pontiff began his eighth day in hospital. Francis was admitted after struggling with breathing and is being treated for pneumonia.
EU boosts undersea cable security with nearly €1B reallocation, enhancing surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response. A new data-sharing system, drone program, and emergency repair fleet aim to protect critical infrastructure amid rising sabotage concerns.
China's centuries-old treasures have been pulled out of storage to be restored for display at Beijing's Forbidden City and Palace Museum. Meticulous repairs are needed ahead of the museum's 100th anniversary this year.
USAID has long promoted itself as a supporter of press freedom, but reports suggest its media funding may have influenced domestic narratives in Europe and post-Soviet states. With the Trump administration freezing its grants, the agency’s role in shaping global information is under scrutiny.
A Delta Air Lines regional jet flipped upside down upon landing at Toronto Pearson Airport on Monday, injuring 18 people. Officials are investigating whether strong winds and snow played a role in the incident.
A tragic crowd crush at New Delhi Railway Station on Saturday night left 18 dead and 10 injured as thousands of people, many heading to the Kumbh Mela festival, attempted to board delayed trains. The incident highlights the ongoing risks of overcrowding at public transportation hubs in India.
Pope Francis is showing improvement, the Vatican said, as the pontiff began his eighth day in hospital. Francis was admitted after struggling with breathing and is being treated for pneumonia.
EU boosts undersea cable security with nearly €1B reallocation, enhancing surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response. A new data-sharing system, drone program, and emergency repair fleet aim to protect critical infrastructure amid rising sabotage concerns.
Pope Francis is showing improvement, the Vatican said, as the pontiff began his eighth day in hospital. Francis was admitted after struggling with breathing and is being treated for pneumonia.
EU boosts undersea cable security with nearly €1B reallocation, enhancing surveillance, deterrence, and rapid response. A new data-sharing system, drone program, and emergency repair fleet aim to protect critical infrastructure amid rising sabotage concerns.
China's centuries-old treasures have been pulled out of storage to be restored for display at Beijing's Forbidden City and Palace Museum. Meticulous repairs are needed ahead of the museum's 100th anniversary this year.
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