A purported draft proposal suggests significant restructuring of the US Department of State, including the elimination of regional bureaus and a reduction of diplomatic presence in countries like Canada. While a State Department spokesperson called it a 'false document', the document's rapid circulation among diplomats highlights their concerns.
The plan proposes substantial changes to US engagement with Africa, potentially transferring much of the State Department's work to the White House and closing 'non-essential embassies and consulates in Sub-Saharan Africa' by October 1, 2025. The Africa bureau would be replaced by a special envoy directly reporting to the National Security Council. US-Canada relations would also see a significant decrease in diplomatic personnel, with the Ottawa embassy possibly reduced to a specialized team under 20.
Diplomats expressed surprise and concern, with one calling the proposal 'insane'. The document's inconsistencies with standard executive order format and other administration communications raise questions about its finality. Many key offices, such as the Bureau of Policy Planning, would be eliminated.
The proposal potentially disrupts routine services for Americans abroad, and lacks details about how this would be addressed. The overall impact on US foreign relations remains uncertain, but the proposed drastic cuts could weaken the State Department’s capacity and effectiveness.