US Institute of Peace Renamed for Trump After Earlier Gutting

In a controversial move, President Donald Trump’s name has been officially affixed to the US Institute of Peace (USIP) building in Washington, D.C. This change coincided with an upcoming peace ceremony between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo, set to occur at the institute.

Renaming of the Institute

The renaming was announced by the State Department on X, promoting it as the “Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace.” The statement emphasized Trump’s reputation as “the greatest dealmaker in our nation’s history.” This development follows a significant reduction in funding for the USIP during Trump’s administration.

Background of USIP

The USIP, created by Congress in 1984, is an independent agency focused on conflict resolution. Earlier this year, Trump’s administration proposed the elimination of federal funding for the institute, effectively curtailing its operations.

Recent Developments

The administration’s takeover has led to extensive legal challenges. In March, the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) sought unauthorized access to the USIP building, resulting in police involvement. Most of the USIP’s board was dismissed in March, with employees receiving termination notices in July.

Reactions from Former Leadership

• George Foote, counsel for former USIP leadership, criticized the renaming, calling it “an insult to injury.”
• Foote highlighted a federal ruling that deemed the government’s actions as illegal, expressing confidence that rightful owners would eventually restore the institute.
• A former official remarked on the irony of Trump’s name being associated with an institution that has suffered significant decline under his leadership.

Defense from the Administration

White House spokesperson Anna Kelly defended the renaming decision, arguing that the USIP was previously inefficient. She claimed it overspent $50 million annually without achieving peace. Kelly further characterized the newly renamed Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace as a testament to effective leadership, asserting it symbolizes progress towards global stability.

This recent change at the US Institute of Peace, alongside the budget cuts and disputes regarding its governance, reflects ongoing tensions in U.S. foreign policy and institutional management.