A recent State Department memo obtained by a reliable source reveals that refugees who were in the process of traveling to the United States have had their flights canceled. This decision comes in response to President Donald Trump's executive order suspending refugee admissions, showcasing the immediate impact of his actions.
The memo states that all previously scheduled refugee travel to the United States is being canceled, and no new bookings will be made. This move is expected to affect thousands of refugees who had flights already arranged, potentially causing issues for those with expiring medical exams or security checks.
Furthermore, the memo indicates that case processing is suspended, effectively halting the program. However, Special Immigrant Visa holders, including individuals who worked for the US abroad, are exempt from the suspension and can still travel to the United States. Refugees already in the country will continue to receive services.
President Trump's executive order, signed on Monday, cited the strain on the US from the recent influx of migrants and refugees as the reason for the suspension of the refugee admissions program. The order was set to take effect on January 27, with the memo suggesting an immediate implementation.
source reached out to the State Department's Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration for comment on the situation. The cancellation of refugee flights underscores the significant impact of the executive order on individuals seeking refuge in the United States.
