US has let in 4,499 refugees since October - all but three were South African

BBC News
April 9, 2026
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3 min read

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The United States has admitted 4,499 refugees since October, with all but three from South Africa.

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The United States has admitted 4,499 refugees since October, with all but three originating from South Africa. This policy reflects President Donald Trump's stated priority to grant refugee status to Afrikaners, a white minority group he claims is facing persecution. The South African government has formally objected to President Trump's characterization of the situation for Afrikaners in their country. This approach marks a significant shift in U.S. refugee admissions, focusing almost exclusively on a specific demographic from one nation. The move also highlights ongoing diplomatic tensions between the Trump administration and South Africa regarding internal affairs.

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