A young Ukrainian boy, hoping to find safety in the U.S., waves a Ukrainian flag after reaching the PedWest border crossing in San Diego, California, on April 13, 2022. REUTERS
Former U.S. President Donald Trump is considering revoking temporary legal status for about 240,000 Ukrainians who fled to the United States due to Russia’s invasion. This decision could put many of them at risk of deportation. The possible policy change follows a report that his administration plans to end these protections.
Trump’s Statement
When asked about this, Trump said he is reviewing the matter but insisted he does not want to harm anyone. “Some people think it’s the right move, some don’t,” he told reporters, adding that he will decide soon.
Ending protections for Ukrainians would be part of a broader plan to revoke legal status from over 1.8 million migrants who entered the U.S. under temporary humanitarian programs during Joe Biden’s presidency. These programs were designed to offer legal pathways to those escaping war, persecution, or political instability.
Who Will Be Affected?
Besides Ukrainians, the Trump administration is also planning to remove legal protections for 530,000 people from Cuba, Haiti, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. The policy change could take effect as early as April, according to sources familiar with the situation.
A White House spokesperson stated that no final decision has been made yet. Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has not issued any updates regarding the matter. The Ukrainian government has not commented either.
Fast-Track Deportations Possible
If the plan moves forward, many Ukrainians and others who lose their protected status could face expedited deportation. Under U.S. immigration laws, migrants who entered legally under parole programs can be removed at any time. Those who crossed the border illegally are subject to fast-track deportation for up to two years after arrival.
The Biden administration initially launched these programs to discourage illegal immigration and provide temporary legal status to those in urgent need. The programs also covered 70,000 Afghans who fled the Taliban’s rule and more than a million migrants who scheduled their entry into the U.S. through an official app.
Ukrainians in Limbo
Many Ukrainians who built new lives in the U.S. are now facing uncertainty. Liana Avetisian, who fled Kyiv with her family in 2023, said they have spent thousands of dollars applying for status renewal. If their applications are denied, they could be forced to leave. “We don’t know what to do,” she said.
Ukrainian community leaders are working to inform people about their rights and legal options. “Most of them have no homes to return to,” said Andrij Dobriansky, a representative of the Ukrainian Congress Committee of America.
Afghans Also Affected
U.S. allies from Afghanistan are also at risk. Rafi, a former Afghan intelligence officer who assisted American forces, was detained after his temporary status was revoked. He said he feels betrayed. “I stood with American troops, and now this is how I’m treated?” he said from detention. His lawyer requested his release, but ICE denied it.
