Activist groups and at least one Democratic senator are urging the Biden administration to protect Ukrainians in the United States from deportation, according to reports that the Department of Homeland Security is considering such a measure, Fox News informed.
With Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, some groups argue that the US should provide Ukrainian nationals already in the country with Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
If qualified, TPS shields nationals of selected countries living in the United States from deportation, allows them to seek employment permits and allows them to travel freely.
TPS is awarded for three reasons: armed conflict in progress, environmental calamities, or “exceptional and temporary situations.”
Immigration hawks have previously criticized the program, claiming that it often protects persons who are in the country unlawfully and that it is extended far beyond the initial emergency or crisis period.
Additionally, the Biden administration might grant Ukrainian nationals an identical Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) designation, which is granted at the president’s discretion.
Given the current armed situation in Ukraine, activist groups claim that it would be a simple decision.
More than 170 organizations have written to President Biden, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, requesting them to designate Ukraine for TPS and DED, as well as give students relief (SSR) – which would safeguard 30,000 Ukrainians, according to estimates.
According to Fox, the Department of Homeland Security is continuing to monitor conditions in many countries across the world but has made no statements at this time.
According to people familiar with the negotiations, the administration is exploring TPS or DED for Ukrainian nationals, according to CBS News.
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