Refugees who were approved to travel to the United States before the January 27 deadline suspending America's refugee resettlement program have had their travel plans canceled by the Trump administration. This has left thousands of refugees stranded at various locations around the globe.
The suspension was part of an executive order signed by President Donald Trump, which left open the possibility for those who had already undergone the lengthy process to be approved as refugees and had flights booked before the deadline to still enter the U.S. However, an email reviewed by The Associated Press revealed that the U.S. agency overseeing refugee processing and arrival has stated that 'refugee arrival to the United States has been suspended until further notice.'
Among those affected are over 1,600 Afghans who were cleared to resettle in the U.S. as part of a program established by the Biden administration following the American withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. This group includes individuals who worked alongside American soldiers during the war and family members of active-duty U.S. military personnel.
Initially, Trump's order had given the agency until January 27 to halt all processing and traveling. However, it now appears that the timing in the order was moved up, although the reason for this change remains unclear.
It is important to note that refugees are distinct from individuals who arrive directly at the U.S.-Mexico border with the intention of seeking asylum in the U.S. Refugees must be residing outside of the U.S. to be considered for resettlement and are typically referred to the State Department by the United Nations. They undergo rigorous screening before being allowed to enter the U.S. Once in the country, they are usually connected with a resettlement agency that assists them in adapting to life in America, including finding employment and enrolling their children in school.
