US President Donald Trump has made a significant declaration, stating that he will permanently halt the entry of refugees from 'Third World Countries' into the United States, while this move, according to Trump, is essential to make America strong again. The announcement came on Thursday, following the tragic deaths of two National Guards in Washington D. C, while , an incident Trump connected to refugees. He emphasized that the current immigration policy has deteriorated the lives of the country's citizens, necessitating immediate and stringent changes.
Defining 'Third World Countries' and Trump's Stance
The term 'Third World Countries' lacks a legal definition but is commonly used to refer to low-income or lower-middle-income nations in Africa, Asia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Trump's statement signifies his intent to completely bar entry for migrants and refugees originating from these regions. He explicitly stated that individuals who aren't beneficial to America or who don't genuinely love the country will also be removed. This declaration is part of his broader promise to tighten. Immigration policies, prioritizing America's security and national interests above all else.
Strict Scrutiny for Migrants from 19 Countries
In a related development, the Trump administration announced on Thursday that migrants from 19 specific countries would face rigorous scrutiny. This measure goes beyond Trump's general declaration regarding 'Third World Countries' refugees, as it will also impact individuals who have already obtained permanent residency (Green Cards) in the United States. Joseph Edlow, Director of USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services), the agency responsible for immigration matters in the U, while s. , confirmed that USCIS would now investigate individuals from these 19 countries, including Afghanistan, who had previously been granted Green Cards.
'Countries of Concern' and New Guidelines
Edlow further explained that the list of these 19 countries was issued in a June 2025 order by Trump, designating them as 'countries of concern. ' This new guideline came into effect on November 27 and applies to all existing and new applications. Consequently, every Green Card issued to individuals from these nations will undergo a strict re-examination. The 19 countries highlighted on the world map include Haiti, Cuba, Togo, Venezuela, Equatorial Guinea, Sierra Leone, Chad, Libya, Eritrea, Sudan, Somalia, Burundi, Congo Republic, Iran, Yemen, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, and Laos. These nations span various regions across Africa, Asia, and Latin America, further illustrating the scope of Trump's 'Third World Countries' reference.
Curbing Government Benefits for Non-Citizens
President Trump also declared that non-citizens would no longer receive any government facilities, subsidies, or benefits. This policy aims to target migrants who might become a burden on the nation's resources. Also, he issued a stern warning that the citizenship of. Any immigrant found disturbing the country's peace would be revoked. Trump clarified that individuals who are a public burden, a threat to security, or don't align with Western civilization will also be expelled from the country, while these stringent measures are intended to bolster America's national security and ensure that only those who respect its values and laws, and prove beneficial to the nation, are permitted to reside within its borders.
