In a major diplomatic overhaul, the Trump administration has ordered the recall of nearly 30 career diplomats serving as ambassadors and senior officials across multiple countries. The move is part of a broader effort to realign US diplomacy with President Donald Trump&rsquo;s America First foreign policy approach.
According to U.S. officials familiar with the development, notices were sent last week to the chiefs of mission in approximately 29 countries, informing them that their assignments would end in January. Most of the diplomats affected were appointed during the Biden administration.
Africa has emerged as the region most impacted by the decision, with ambassadors being recalled from 13 countries, including Nigeria, Senegal, Rwanda, Somalia, Uganda, and the Ivory Coast. Asia follows, with six nations affected, including the Philippines, Vietnam, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Europe has four countries facing diplomatic changes, while Algeria and Egypt are affected in the Middle East. Guatemala and Suriname are also included in the list.
While ambassadors generally serve three to four-year terms, their positions are held at the discretion of the US president. Officials clarified that those recalled will not lose their positions in the Foreign Service and may take up other assignments within the US government if they choose.
The US State Department declined to comment directly on the recalls but described the move as a routine transition. It reiterated that ambassadors serve as personal representatives of the president and must reflect the administration&rsquo;s foreign policy priorities.

Career diplomats recalled as Trump reshapes US foreign policy under America First

Trump Recalls 30 US Ambassadors Worldwide

Career diplomats recalled as Trump reshapes US foreign policy under America First

December 22, 2025 | 09:59 IST