The National Security Impact of Shutting Down USAID – The Cipher Brief

March 3, 2025 | By Vice Admiral Mike LeFever, USN (Ret.), Director of Strategic Operational Planning, National Counterterrorism Center (2011-2014)

“Stable governments and healthier populations are less likely to become hotbeds for conflict and extremism. By fostering economic development, USAID directly contributes to global stability, which in turn supports U.S. strategic and security objectives. Conversely, retreating from development initiatives leaves space for global rivals to assert themselves. Other powers—particularly those with competing worldviews—may step in, expanding their influence at America’s expense.”