U.S. President Donald Trump announced he would soon decide whether to revoke temporary legal status for 240,000 Ukrainians who fled the war with Russia. This move, part of a broader immigration crackdown, could lead to fast-track deportations for migrants who arrived under Biden-era humanitarian programs.
The potential rollback aligns with Trump’s executive order to terminate categorical parole programs, affecting over 1.8 million migrants, including 530,000 Cubans, Haitians, Nicaraguans, and Venezuelans. Sources suggest that the revocation for Ukrainians could begin as early as April. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt denied a final decision had been made.
Ukrainian refugees, like Liana Avetisian, who settled in Iowa, now face uncertainty as their parole and work permits expire in May. With no clear pathway to remain, many fear deportation to war-torn regions. Community leaders warn that returning would be catastrophic, as many Ukrainians have lost their homes to conflict.
Trump’s administration also halted immigration processing for Afghans who aided U.S. forces. Rafi, a former Afghan intelligence officer, legally entered the U.S. under a Biden program but was detained at an ICE check-in. Despite his asylum application and support from former U.S. military officers, his status was revoked.
Trump previously pledged to end Biden’s immigration programs, claiming they exceeded legal bounds. Critics argue these rollbacks betray America’s humanitarian commitments, leaving vulnerable migrants without protection.
The decision could reshape U.S. immigration policy, impacting thousands who sought refuge through legal pathways. As tensions rise, the fate of displaced Ukrainians and other migrants remains uncertain.