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The US Department of Homeland Security has announced the temporary suspension of several immigration programmes, including the key initiative “Unite for Ukraine” (U4U). This programme, launched by the Joe Biden administration, allowed Ukrainians to enter the US with a financial sponsor.
According to The New York Times, a directive issued on Thursday by a senior US Citizenship and Immigration Services official ordered an immediate halt to final decisions on applications submitted under these programmes. The administration is currently analysing whether to continue or terminate them.
Impact on Ukrainians
As of September 2023, more than 150,000 Ukrainians have used the U4U programme to temporarily reside in the United States. However, with the introduction of restrictions, Ukrainians who have already applied or are on their way face numerous difficulties.
Users of social media groups for the Ukrainian diaspora in the United States confirm that their relatives or acquaintances have been denied entry. Many of them are in limbo, as their immigration plans have been thwarted at the stage when they have already prepared to move.
Cancellation of other programmes
The directive also affected other initiatives, including the family reunification programme. These changes have caused concern among Ukrainian families who had hoped to move to the US due to the war in Ukraine.
Reaction of the Ukrainian diaspora
Concerns are growing among Ukrainian communities in the United States about the situation. Many are calling on the US administration to reconsider its decision and preserve programmes that have become vital for thousands of people fleeing the war.
