U.S. Foreign Service Union Sues Trump Administration Over Mass Layoffs

The union representing U.S. Foreign Service officers has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration, seeking to block the planned dismissal of nearly 250 diplomats despite a new federal spending law aimed at protecting their jobs into 2026.

The State Department earlier this month notified affected U.S.-based diplomats that the mass layoffs—first announced in July—would take effect on Dec. 5. The move follows the expiration of a mandatory 120-day administrative leave period, which concluded during the November government shutdown that halted many nonessential operations.

Union leaders argue the administration is violating congressional intent by pressing ahead with the terminations, saying the recent appropriations law was designed to give hundreds of diplomats temporary relief from job cuts. Supporters of the displaced workers gathered outside the State Department in Washington on July 11, carrying signs thanking diplomats for their service.

The case is scheduled to be heard next week as the dispute intensifies over the administration’s staffing overhaul.