The administration of US President Donald Trump has ordered the return of nearly 30 career diplomats serving as chiefs of mission in embassies worldwide, signaling a broad realignment of America’s international relations.
The recalls, affecting posts in 29 countries, were communicated to the diplomats last week, with their assignments set to conclude in January, according to reports.
All the envoys were appointed during the previous administration of Joe Biden and had remained in place following an earlier wave of removals that primarily targeted political figures in the initial phase of Trump’s second term.
The diplomats, who are not being dismissed from the foreign service but reassigned to roles in Washington if they choose, include ambassadors from 15 African nations: Algeria, Burundi, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Gabon, Cote d’Ivoire, Egypt, Madagascar, Mauritius, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia and Uganda.
Six Asia-Pacific countries are impacted: Fiji, Laos, the Marshall Islands, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines and Vietnam.
In Europe, four envoys are affected from Armenia, North Macedonia, Montenegro and Slovakia, while two each come from south Asia — Nepal and Sri Lanka — and the western hemisphere — Guatemala and Suriname.
A State Department spokesperson described the action as routine, stating: “This is a standard process in any administration.”
The official added: “An ambassador is a personal representative of the president and it is the president’s right to ensure that he has individuals in these countries who advance the America First agenda.”
The department declined to provide exact figures or names but confirmed the moves aim to ensure alignment with Trump’s priorities.
The changes have sparked unease among some US legislators and the diplomats’ union, amid concerns over the pace and scope of the diplomatic reshuffle.
The development was first disclosed by Politico.
