Explainer: Why isn't the U.S. accepting more Ukrainian refugees? | Reuters
Category: News & Politics
Via: vic-eldred • 2 years ago • 5 commentsBy: Ted Hesson (Reuters)
More than 3 million people have fled Ukraine to neighboring countries since Russia invaded on Feb. 24, according to United Nations data, but the United States has only admitted several hundred Ukrainian refugees so far, leaving some critics questioning U.S. government policy.
WASHINGTON, March 16 (Reuters) - More than 3 million people have fled Ukraine to neighboring countries since Russia invaded on Feb. 24, according to United Nations data, but the United States has only admitted several hundred Ukrainian refugees so far, leaving some critics questioning U.S. government policy.
WHY HASN'T THE U.S. TAKEN IN MORE UKRAINIAN REFUGEES?
U.S. President Joe Biden and his top officials have said the United States stands ready to accept refugees if needed, but the administration has repeatedly signaled that Europe should be the primary destination for Ukrainians. read more
"We're going to welcome Ukrainian refugees with open arms if, in fact, they come all the way here," Biden said on March 11 during a meeting of fellow Democrats in Philadelphia.
Vice President Kamala Harris, Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki have made similar comments. Psaki said on March 10 that the administration believes the "vast majority" of refugees will want to remain in neighboring countries where many have family, friends and former employers.
The U.S. State Department has said that it will work with the United Nations to bring Ukrainian refugees to the United States in the event they lack protection in Europe, "bearing in mind that resettlement to the United States is not a quick process."
Refugee resettlement …
Wouldn't the Ukrainian refugees have asylum qualifications?
It is odd, isn't it?
Ukrainians are most white and pull heavily to the right politically. So they are persona non grata for this administration. Wrong color; and worst of all wrong political persuasion.
Biden doesn't want Cuban, Haitian, or any other refugees fleeing communist/socialist oppression either.
If refugees, immigrants, and illegals can't be counted on support Democrats; then they have no use for them.
You have a very valid point.
Could it be anything else?
Walking Talking Witnesses to the Evils of Communism.
We’re on the other side of the planet. We speak a wildly different language. It would be really expensive, difficult, and time-consuming to travel here. Most refugees aren’t looking to move forever. They want to go back home, eventually.
Compared to the alternatives - i.e. walking or driving into Poland, Moldova, Slovakia, Hungary, or Romania - it’s really not a tough choice.