Trump policies leave refugees stranded worldwide

WASHINGTON, Dec 06 (AP): Thousands of refugees around the world have been unable to enter the United States due to new policies under President Donald Trump. Many had prepared for their move, sold belongings, and secured travel documents before the program was suspended.

Trump restarted the refugee program in October but set the lowest limit ever of 7,500 people, mostly from South Africa. Additional restrictions were introduced after a security incident involving an Afghan national. The administration cited economic and security concerns for the changes.

About 600,000 refugees were in process when the program was halted. Only a small number have been admitted since, largely due to court actions seeking to restore the program. Advocates warn that many families remain stranded.

Some refugees have waited for years. The Dawood family fled Syria and settled in Iraq, hoping to reunite in the U.S. for better medical care for their daughter. Only two children reached Connecticut in November 2024, while the parents and other siblings remain in Irbil, unable to work or travel.

Chinese pastor Lu Taizhi has lived in Thailand for over a decade, seeking safety from persecution. Despite being approved for resettlement in the U.S., multiple flights were canceled after Trump took office. Lu now lives apart from his family and earns a living teaching and preaching.

In East Africa, refugee Louis arrived in the U.S. in 2024, but his wife and two young children remain in a camp in Uganda due to policy freezes. Separation has caused emotional strain on both Louis and his family, who worry about growing apart over time.

Refugee advocates stress that Trump's policies have left many vulnerable families in legal limbo, delaying reunions and access to safety in the United States.