“This decision is appropriate and aligns with both humanitarian concerns and national interests,” the administration said on October 30 when confirming the new annual cap.
The U.S. government did not provide further explanation for the sharp reduction in refugee admissions. The new ceiling represents a significant drop from the 125,000-person limit set last year under former President Joe Biden.
American media outlets had previously reported on the plan, noting that white South Africans would be prioritized for resettlement.
The announcement quickly drew criticism from refugee advocacy organizations. The International Refugee Assistance Project (IRAP) said the move shows Washington is “politicizing a humanitarian program” and “placing politics above protection.”
In his inaugural address in January, President Trump announced a suspension of refugee admissions. Since then, only a small number of refugees have been allowed to enter the U.S., mostly white South Africans.
In February, the U.S. government introduced a special program for white South Africans, citing claims that farmers in this community face discrimination and violence in their home country — allegations that the South African government has strongly denied.