The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) of the United States has initiated a process of mass layoffs. The New York Times reported, citing its sources, that the CIA has started to lay off employees hired in the last two years.
How are the layoffs being carried out?
According to reports, employees called to a special office outside Langley are being asked to submit their service information. The newspaper stated that this information was confirmed by the CIA's press service.
So far, it is not officially clear how many employees have been laid off. However, sources indicate that the CIA leadership does not plan to dismiss all new employees but is stopping the use of a specific layer of employees.
Nervous atmosphere in Langley
Sources from the newspaper report that there is significant disorder and anxiety among CIA employees. Some employees are reportedly afraid to answer phone calls following the news of the layoffs.
"The layoffs have lowered morale in the agency and negatively impacted employee productivity," the newspaper's report states.
What is the basis for this decision?
The mass layoffs were implemented just a few days after a court ruling that legalized the right of CIA Director John Ratcliffe to dismiss agency employees at his discretion. Following this decision, it is believed that internal changes began within the agency and a plan to reduce "unnecessary" employees is being implemented.
What do the changes in the CIA signify?
These changes in the CIA, one of the most important intelligence agencies in the U.S., could also impact U.S. foreign and domestic intelligence policy. The mass reductions at the CIA may indicate a shift in national security strategy and agency policy.
In the coming days, there is great interest in how the changes in the CIA, especially in the field of domestic intelligence, will lead to new developments.
