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Trump Calls for Sweeping Immigration Freeze Following D.C. Tragedy
In a move that reignites deep political divisions over immigration policy, President Donald Trump has pledged to “permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries,” citing national security concerns after a fatal attack involving an Afghan asylum seeker near the White House.
Trump’s remarks, made on Truth Social, followed the shooting death of 20-year-old National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom and the critical injury of fellow Guardsman Andrew Wolfe. The alleged gunman, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, a 29-year-old Afghan national, reportedly entered the U.S. in 2021 under a resettlement program established by the Biden administration after the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.
While Trump’s statement lacked specific definitions for “Third World Countries” or details about how a “permanent pause” would be implemented, the declaration represents a significant escalation in his longstanding agenda to curb immigration—both legal and illegal—into the United States.
Denaturalization, Deportations and Federal Benefit Cuts Proposed
In addition to the migration freeze, Trump outlined a controversial plan to:
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End all federal benefits for non-citizens
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Denaturalize migrants who “undermine domestic tranquility”
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Deport individuals considered “non-compatible with Western civilization,” public charges, or security threats
These measures, if enacted, would mark an unprecedented federal response that impacts even naturalized citizens. Trump’s proposed policies could also affect those granted entry legally under previous administrations, particularly Biden’s resettlement initiatives.
While the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the White House have not yet commented, the United Nations has urged the U.S. to adhere to international asylum obligations. UN spokespersons emphasized the importance of due process and the legal rights of asylum seekers under the 1953 Refugee Convention.
Asylum Backlog and “Reverse Migration” Push
Trump’s comments were paired with an announcement that USCIS has halted processing all Afghan immigration requests, signaling a broad reassessment of previously approved asylum and green card cases. A Homeland Security source confirmed a review is underway for green cards issued to nationals from 19 countries.
Trump also introduced the term “reverse migration,” a strategy aimed at reducing the undocumented population by encouraging or compelling voluntary or forced departures. This builds on his recent ramp-up of deportations, which according to ICE statistics, has already affected tens of thousands of individuals—many of whom have no criminal history.
Immigration Reform at a Crossroads: Legal Pathways Remain
This high-profile incident and the subsequent policy rhetoric from Trump underscore the volatile landscape of U.S. immigration law. However, despite the political headwinds, the U.S. legal system continues to offer pathways to lawful residency, asylum, and citizenship.
At Spar & Bernstein, we understand that sudden policy shifts create immense fear and confusion for immigrants and their families. Whether you are seeking asylum, defending against removal, or pursuing naturalization, our experienced immigration attorneys are here to guide you through the complexities of evolving federal policy.
We help clients:
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Prepare for policy changes through status review and risk analysis
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File waivers and humanitarian parole applications
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Challenge denials and delays in immigration benefits
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Navigate denaturalization threats with constitutional defense
In moments of uncertainty, trusted legal advocacy becomes essential. As immigration law continues to evolve in real time, we remain committed to defending the rights of immigrants, ensuring due process, and preserving access to the American Dream.
Source:
Reuters, “Trump vows to freeze migration from ‘Third World Countries’ after D.C. attack”
Link: https://www.reuters.com/world/trump-says-us-will-permanently-pause-migration-third-world-countries-2025-11-28/
