The United States Embassy in the Maldives is among nearly 30 American diplomatic missions that may be shut down as part of a sweeping plan to slash the US State Department’s budget, according to a report by Reuters.
Internal planning documents reviewed by the news agency show that the administration of US President Donald Trump is seeking to reduce State Department spending by nearly 50 percent in fiscal year 2026, amounting to cuts of almost $30 billion. The proposed reduction is outlined in a "Passback" — the response of the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to the department’s funding request.
While the plan has not yet been finalized or officially announced, Reuters reports that the list of missions being considered for closure includes US embassies and consulates across Europe and Africa. Countries such as South Sudan, Eritrea, Lesotho, and the Gambia are also reportedly on the list.
Although the US Embassy in the Maldives has not been confirmed for closure, it is reportedly under review. Before the establishment of the embassy in Malé, US diplomatic affairs in the region were managed through the US mission in Sri Lanka.
If the proposed closures proceed, the US could save an estimated $30 billion. However, officials familiar with the matter say that the final proposal, which must be submitted to Congress, may undergo minor adjustments and could face opposition from lawmakers who might restore some funding.
The internal memo regarding the mission closures was first reported by *The Washington Post*. As of now, the US government has not made any public statement confirming the closure of specific embassies.
Internal planning documents reviewed by the news agency show that the administration of US President Donald Trump is seeking to reduce State Department spending by nearly 50 percent in fiscal year 2026, amounting to cuts of almost $30 billion. The proposed reduction is outlined in a "Passback" — the response of the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to the department’s funding request.
While the plan has not yet been finalized or officially announced, Reuters reports that the list of missions being considered for closure includes US embassies and consulates across Europe and Africa. Countries such as South Sudan, Eritrea, Lesotho, and the Gambia are also reportedly on the list.
Although the US Embassy in the Maldives has not been confirmed for closure, it is reportedly under review. Before the establishment of the embassy in Malé, US diplomatic affairs in the region were managed through the US mission in Sri Lanka.
If the proposed closures proceed, the US could save an estimated $30 billion. However, officials familiar with the matter say that the final proposal, which must be submitted to Congress, may undergo minor adjustments and could face opposition from lawmakers who might restore some funding.
The internal memo regarding the mission closures was first reported by *The Washington Post*. As of now, the US government has not made any public statement confirming the closure of specific embassies.
