State Department Cuts China Experts, Raising Concerns | JQJO

The State Department eliminated its top South China Sea experts and shut down a key Indo-Pacific security office, despite administration claims of prioritizing countering Beijing. This move, part of a larger reorganization, has left gaps in critical regional knowledge and experience. Fired employees, many with outstanding performance reviews, express concern that this will harm U.S. interests and benefit China. Experts outside the State Department also voiced alarm, fearing the cuts will signal U.S. withdrawal and weaken alliances in the region.