Trump Plans U.S. Embassy Shutdowns in Africa, But Nigeria Escapes the Hook

By: ABUTU CHUBIYOJO JOSIAH

U.S. President Donald Trump has initiated plans to shut down several American embassies in Africa and other regions around the world.

The U.S. President Donald Trump administration’s proposal could impact approximately 30 embassies and consulates globally, as part of a broader strategy to scale back the United States’ diplomatic footprint, CNN reported, citing an internal State Department document.

Among the embassies proposed for closure are those in the Republic of Congo, Central African Republic, Lesotho, and South Sudan, along with a U.S. consulate in South Africa.

“The document recommends closing 10 embassies and 17 consulates,” the report stated. “Many of the affected posts are located in Europe and Africa, with others in Asia and the Caribbean. These include embassies in Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, the Republic of Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan.”

Additionally, the document suggests scaling back the U.S. presence in countries such as Somalia and Iraq—nations that have been central to America’s counterterrorism efforts.

As of now, there has been no official confirmation that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has approved the proposal. A State Department spokesperson declined to comment on the leaked document.