President Trump plans to revoke temporary legal status for around 240,000 Ukrainians who left their country due to Russia’s invasion, potentially leading to deportations. This move is part of a larger initiative to withdraw legal protections from more than 1.8 million migrants. The proposal emerges amid rising tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Zelenskyy, further complicating U.S.-Ukraine relations.
Recent reports indicate that President Donald Trump intends to terminate the temporary legal status of approximately 240,000 Ukrainians who fled the nation due to Russia’s invasion. This decision, anticipated as early as April, could lay the groundwork for deportation of these individuals, according to Reuters. The plan aligns with Trump’s broader strategy to increase deportations amidst growing tensions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
The Trump administration’s initiative would also strip temporary legal status from over 1.8 million migrants currently allowed entry into the United States under humanitarian parole programs established by President Joe Biden. This move is expected to impact migrants from various regions, including Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, in addition to the Ukrainians.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is designated by the Department of Homeland Security for individuals unable to return to their home countries due to factors like armed conflict or environmental disasters. Ukraine was granted TPS shortly after Russia began its invasion in March 2022, with an extension lasting until October 2026.
In line with an executive order signed on January 20, the administration aims to terminate all categorical parole programs, potentially affecting at least 530,000 individuals from multiple countries. Additionally, approximately 77,000 Afghans who fled from Taliban rule are also encompassed by these programs.
Revoking TPS for many Ukrainians would signify a departure from President Biden’s policies designed to assist those affected by the conflict in Ukraine. The “Uniting for Ukraine” initiative was implemented to provide refuge for those facing dire circumstances, while encouraging American sponsorship.
The ongoing disputes between Trump and Zelenskyy have further exacerbated political tensions. A recent meeting between the two leaders became contentious, highlighting Trump’s criticisms of Zelenskyy and his calls for expedited peace negotiations with Russia. Trump’s commentary has at times included labeling Zelenskyy as a “dictator,” comments that he later attempted to mitigate.
In summary, President Trump’s proposed revocation of legal status for 240,000 Ukrainians may result in significant deportations, reflecting a considerable shift in U.S. immigration policy. This initiative is set against the backdrop of broader efforts to dismantle temporary legal status for numerous migrants and highlights a worsening relationship with Ukrainian leadership. The implications of these actions raise concerns about the treatment and rights of those who sought refuge in the United States due to conflict and turmoil.
Original Source: www.forbes.com
