Story perspectives

Musk's USAID Cuts Spark Outrage, Threaten Lives Worldwide

12/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

Elon Musk's cuts to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) drew sharp criticism from Susie Wiles, White House chief of staff.
In a Vanity Fair interview, Wiles described Musk's approach as chaotic and poorly managed.
The cuts have caused humanitarian consequences, including halted immunizations in Africa.
Musk continued aggressive cost-cutting, calling USAID a 'criminal organization'.
Former officials and relief agencies warn thousands of lives may be lost.

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Story summary

Elon Musk's cuts to the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) drew sharp criticism from Susie Wiles, White House chief of staff.
In a Vanity Fair interview, Wiles described Musk's approach as chaotic and poorly managed.
The cuts have caused humanitarian consequences, including halted immunizations in Africa.
Musk continued aggressive cost-cutting, calling USAID a 'criminal organization'.
Former officials and relief agencies warn thousands of lives may be lost.