**US Suspends Ukrainian Refugee Program**
The US has suspended its refugee program for Ukrainians, called “Uniting for Ukraine”. This program allowed Ukrainians to stay in the US for up to two years, work, and receive health insurance. The applicants were required to have a sponsor in the US who would financially support them.
**Why was the program suspended?**
The program was suspended due to an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump on January 20, 2025. This order requires the review of all categorical parole processes. As a result, new applications are effectively frozen until the completion of this review.
**What does this mean for Ukrainians?**
This decision will block the entry of immigrants fleeing some of the most unstable places in the world, including Ukraine, Cuba, Haiti, and Venezuela. Over 6 million Ukrainian citizens have fled their homes in the wake of Russia’s invasion in 2022.
**Other developments**
The US State Department has also suspended almost all foreign aid, including non-military assistance to Ukraine. This has caused concerns among Ukrainian NGOs that rely on this support. President Zelensky of Ukraine has spoken out against this decision, stating that it is essential for security guarantees from NATO.
**Violence in Ukraine**
Russian attacks across Ukraine have killed at least four civilians and injured at least 23 over the past day. Russian forces have also suffered casualties, with 1,380 reported over the same period.
**Other news**
The Group of Seven (G7) countries has called for a quick resolution to a dispute over defense procurement. The Justice Ministry in Ukraine has requested the confiscation of assets from the Russian oil company Tatneft. President Zelensky has met with leaders from France and Europe, and Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko has been criticized for his handling of presidential elections.
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