The CIA has confirmed it is firing some of its newer employees.
A spokesperson said on Thursday that the agency will review personnel hired within the past two years.
“For some personnel, that process will result in termination. Our officers face unique pressures from working in situations that are fast-paced and high-stakes—it’s not for everyone,” a spokesperson for the CIA told The Epoch Times in an email.
The CIA declined to say how many workers are expected to be fired.
The cuts are part of sweeping staffing reductions at agencies across the federal government made at the direction of President Donald Trump, who with the help of Elon Musk-led Department of Government Efficiency, has aimed at slashing the government workforce while improving efficiency.
Tens of thousands of probationary workers have been fired from across the government in recent weeks, after about 75,000 accepted buyouts.
Some CIA employees had sued the agency in February, alleging they were wrongfully placed on leave, and faced imminent termination, because they had been assigned to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility work.
Trump in an executive order directed agencies to terminate all related positions. The employees said the temporary nature of their assignments meant the actions against them were arbitrary and should be blocked.
The CIA previously confirmed that workers were offered buyouts, but has not said how many accepted buyouts.
The agency also does not disclose employment numbers.
Ratcliffe during his confirmation hearing outlined his plans for the agency, including improving efforts to collect intelligence. He also said that biases should not cloud the judgment of CIA employees.
“To the brave CIA officers listening around the world, if all of this sounds like what you signed up for, then buckle up and get ready to make a difference,” he said at the time. “If it doesn’t, then it’s time to find a new line of work.”
