Trump to permanently pause migration from 'Third World Countries'
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has announced a series of immigration reforms. The proposals include a "permanent pause" on migration from all Third World countries and what he calls "reverse migration." He argued that despite technological advancements, immigration policies have weakened the US and said the country needs time to "fully recover." Trump has promised to end "millions of Biden illegal admissions" and deport anyone he considers "not a net asset to the United States."
Policy changes
Trump vows to end federal benefits for non-citizens
In a post on Truth Social, he wrote, "I will permanently pause migration from all Third World Countries to allow the US system to fully recover, terminate all of the millions of Biden illegal admissions...and remove anyone who is not a net asset to the US." He also announced ending all "federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens, denaturalize migrants who undermine domestic tranquility, and deport any Foreign National who is a public charge, security risk, or noncompatible with Western Civilization."
Immigration review
Trump orders review of green card holders
The proposals come after an Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, shot two National Guard members near the White House. One died on Friday. After the shooting, the administration imposed an indefinite ban on immigration requests involving Afghan nationals. The suspect, Lakanwal, entered the US in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome. This program was initiated by President Biden after the US withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021. Lakanwal had served with American troops in Kandahar as part of a partner force.
Ongoing probe
Suspect's asylum status and ongoing investigation
Lakanwal was granted asylum this year, according to NBC News. While he came to the US in 2021, he sought asylum in 2024, and the Trump administration approved it in April 2025, CNN also reported. Attorney Jeanine Pirro is currently reviewing his immigration history and vetting process In a video address, Trump blamed the Biden administration for bringing Lakanwal to the US and called it "the single greatest national security threat facing our nation."