US Embassies in FAS countries present a united front on US policy

The website of the U.S. Agency for International Development (commonly known as US AID) in the Federated States of Micronesia’s website led to the following statement:

USAID funded Samaritans Purse in New Zealand. Photo courtesy of US Embassy of New Zealand.

“On Friday, February 7, 2025, at 11:59 pm (EST) all USAID direct hire personnel will be placed on administrative leave globally, with the exception of designated personnel responsible for mission-critical functions, core leadership and specially designated programs. Essential personnel expected to continue working will be informed by Agency leadership by Thursday, February 6, at 3:00pm (EST).

“For USAID personnel currently posted outside the United States, the Agency, in coordination with missions and the Department of State, is currently preparing a plan, in accordance with all applicable requirements and laws, under which the Agency would arrange and pay for return travel to the United States within 30 days and provide for the termination of PSC [Personal Service Contracts] and ISC [Institutional Support} contracts that are not determined to be essential. The Agency will consider case-by-case exceptions and return travel extensions based on personal or family hardship, mobility or safety concerns, or other reasons. For example, the Agency will consider exceptions based on the timing of dependents’ school term, personal or familial medical needs, pregnancy, and other reasons. Further guidance on how to request an exception will be forthcoming.

Thank you for your service.”

Protests against the shuttering of US AID around the world are being seen in the U.S. mainland.

The U.S. Embassies in the FSM, Palau and the Marshall Islands are posting statements from the U.S. Department of State, including a Jan. 29 media release from the Office of the Spokesperson on the “90-day pause and review of U.S. foreign aid,” as well as the “Emergency humanitarian wavier to foreign assistance pause” of the same date.

For related news, see mbjguam.com: Three Freely Associated States meet US officials and mbjguam.com: US suspends foreign aid, potentially affecting Micronesia mbj

United to end cash payments at FSM airports in 2027

Travelers flying to or from the Federated States of Micronesia will need a credit or debit card for payments to United Airlines at its airports. The airline will switch to cashless payments for airport and cargo operations in the FSM beginning Jan. 15, 2027, according to an advisory from its station management.

Airline emphasizes commitment to Guam and the region

If there was an overarching message from David Kinzelman, chief customer officer and senior vice president for airport operations, during his visit, it was that the region is not only important to the airline, but that its customers receive the same attention as anywhere else in the United network.

US Embassies in FAS countries present a united front on US policy