Ukrainians in U.S. Need TPS or DED, National Security Leaders Say

For Immediate Release

Contact: Stacey Hutchinson
stacey@monumentadvocacy.com

Washington, D.C. — As Ukraine braces for further incursions and a full-scale attack by Russia, the U.S. government must allow Ukrainians currently in the United States to stay temporarily.

The Council on National Security and Immigration (CNSI) calls on the administration to swiftly grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) to Ukrainians here, not force them to choose between staying illegally or returning to worsening conditions that could put their lives at risk. In addition, the U.S. should prepare now for a potential surge of refugees from Ukraine.

Since assuming office, President Biden has issued two new TPS designations and one DED directive, offering protections for residents avoiding persecution in Hong Kong, Venezuela and Burma.

“The events presently transpiring in Ukraine warrant swift action and robust protections,” said CNSI Leader and former Senior Advisor at the Department of Homeland Security, Scott Boylan. “The stunning circumstances unfolding in Ukraine highlight, once again, the United States’ obligation to offer humanitarian support for those caught in the crosshairs of invasion and political instability. We must rise to the occasion and offer protection to those who would face violence, persecution and degradation abroad.”

Among the CNSI’s founding principles is a commitment to demonstrating and practicing humanitarian leadership by welcoming the most vulnerable refugees in accordance with our domestic laws and international obligations. We encourage our allies and other countries who have the means to immediately do the same.

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