President Trump is set to revoke temporary legal status for 240,000 Ukrainians due to escalating tensions with Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy. This decision may lead to deportations and is part of a wider effort to dismantle protections for over 1.8 million migrants. The move contrasts with previous U.S. policies aimed at supporting Ukrainian refugees.
President Donald Trump is reportedly planning to revoke the temporary protected status given to approximately 240,000 Ukrainians who fled from Russia’s invasion, as noted by Reuters. This decision follows a recent escalation in tensions between Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as Trump seeks to increase deportations. The expected revocation could occur as early as April, potentially leading to deportation for these individuals.
In addition to the Ukrainian status, Trump’s administration is poised to eliminate temporary legal protection for over 1.8 million migrants who entered the United States under humanitarian programs initiated by President Joe Biden. This information stems from a senior administration official and three additional sources familiar with the developments. Immediate responses from the White House or Ukraine’s embassy were unavailable.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is designated by the Department of Homeland Security for residents from countries facing unsafe conditions, such as armed conflict or disaster. Ukraine was designated TPS in March 2022, shortly after the invasion, with a recent extension allowing legal residency until October 2026.
In conjunction with this action, Trump signed an executive order prompting the termination of various categorical parole programs. This is anticipated to impact migrants from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela, amounting to over 530,000 individuals. Additionally, approximately 77,000 Afghans who fled the Taliban may also be affected.
The cancellation of TPS for Ukrainians would represent a significant departure from Biden’s efforts to support Ukrainian refugees under the “Uniting for Ukraine” initiative. This program was established to help individuals fleeing the conflict and allowed entry into the U.S. under sponsorship.
Moreover, this move reflects ongoing tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy. Following a combative meeting in the Oval Office, Trump and Vice President JD Vance expressed feelings of disrespect from Zelenskyy, who resisted suggestions to negotiate peace with Russia. Trump has been advocating for dialogue between Ukraine and Russia, labeling Zelenskyy as a dictator under prior accusations, although he later modified this assertion.
In summary, President Trump’s initiative to revoke temporary protected status for 240,000 Ukrainians marks a significant shift in U.S. policy towards migrants from war-torn countries. It aligns with a broader effort to rescind protections for over 1.8 million individuals under various humanitarian programs. This development comes amidst rising tensions between Trump and Zelenskyy, indicating a complex geopolitical landscape as the situation in Ukraine continues to evolve.
Original Source: www.forbes.com
