CNN: Trump Administration Could Close 30 Foreign Embassys and consulates · Global Voices

The Trump administration is considering the possibility of closing nearly 30 embassies and consulates abroad, while envisioning major changes in American diplomatic presence abroad, according to an internal document provided by the State Department. CNN.

The document recommended for closure of embassies in Malta, Luxembourg, Lesotho, Republic of Congo, Central Africa and South Sudan. The list also includes five consulates in France, two in Germany, two in Bosnia and Herzegovina, one in the United Kingdom, one in South Africa and one in South Korea, writes CNN.

Also recommended is reducing attendance in US diplomatic missions in Somalia and Iraq two countries that have been key to US anti-terrorism efforts, as well as “restructuring” of other diplomatic missions.

It is not yet clear whether Secretary of State Marco Rubio has approved the proposed closures.

The proposed changes come under a broader US diplomatic agency reform, while the administration -- promoted by the Department for Efficiency of Government (DOGE) supported by Efficiency, takes dramatic steps to reduce the federal government.

CNN reported in March that the State Department was taking steps to close some of the consulates listed in the internal document.

Otherwise, embassies and consulates are important points for the State Department. They provide services such as visa processing and assistance to needy American citizens. These posts also collect information sent to Washington, and officials say they are important diplomatic tools as the US tries to counter the influence of countries like China. Most consulates have no major staff./Periscopi/