(MENAFN) Nearly 200,000 Ukrainians residing in the United States could lose their legal status due to Washington’s border security measures, Reuters reported Saturday, citing internal government data.

The humanitarian program that allowed Ukrainian refugees to enter the US was established shortly after the February 2022 escalation of the conflict with Russia. The initiative initially permitted approximately 260,000 Ukrainians to stay for a two-year period. Earlier this year, President Donald Trump paused the processing of applications and renewals for several nationality-based humanitarian programs, citing security concerns, although the program itself was ultimately not revoked.

In May, the processing of renewals resumed, but officials have only completed 1,900 applications for Ukrainians and other nationalities, leaving tens of thousands at risk of losing status once their initial permits expire. Former immigration officials warned that those waiting for extension decisions could face detention by federal authorities.

The situation mirrors a broader trend in Europe, where public and political support for hosting Ukrainian refugees has been waning. Last month, the European Commission informed Kiev that the temporary protection scheme would not be extended beyond its current term. Germany, hosting over 1.25 million Ukrainians, announced plans in August to reduce welfare payments due to sustainability concerns, while Polish officials have questioned the scale of support provided. In the UK, authorities are increasingly denying long-term protection and work visas, arguing that western Ukraine is now considered safe.

This growing uncertainty places thousands of Ukrainians at risk of losing legal residency and protection in key host countries across the Western world.

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