Fact Check: Ukrainians in Iowa fear deportation as protections expire.

Fact Check: Ukrainians in Iowa Fear Deportation as Protections Expire

What We Know

Since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in early 2022, many Ukrainians have sought refuge in the United States through the Biden administration's "Uniting for Ukraine" program, which provided temporary protection from deportation and work permits for over 240,000 individuals (source). However, recent developments have raised concerns among these refugees, particularly in Iowa, where many have settled.

In January 2025, President Trump signed an executive order that suspended the processing of petitions and renewals for the Uniting for Ukraine program, leading to fears of deportation among Ukrainian families (source). As a result, many Ukrainians in Iowa are experiencing uncertainty regarding their legal status, with some facing the expiration of their work permits and driver’s licenses (source).

Community leaders in Iowa have expressed their concern about the potential impact of these changes, emphasizing that the Ukrainians who have integrated into their communities now face the prospect of becoming undocumented immigrants or burdens on local resources (source).

Analysis

The situation for Ukrainian refugees in Iowa is precarious. The executive order signed by Trump has created a climate of fear, as many Ukrainians are unsure of their future in the U.S. The uncertainty is compounded by the Supreme Court's recent decisions regarding similar programs for other immigrant groups, which have led to increased anxiety among Ukrainians that they may be next (source).

The reports from various sources highlight the emotional and practical challenges faced by these families. For instance, Oleksii Chyrka, a Ukrainian refugee, articulated the dire situation, stating, "We are uncertain; we have no idea what to do next" (source). This sentiment is echoed by community leaders who are worried that the legal protections that were once a lifeline for these families are now at risk of being revoked (source).

While some Ukrainians in Iowa have Temporary Protected Status (TPS) that extends until October 2026, this status is not permanent and does not guarantee long-term security (source). The fear of deportation is palpable, as many families have already experienced the expiration of their legal protections, leaving them in a state of limbo (source).

The credibility of the sources reporting on this issue is generally high, with reputable outlets like The New York Times, NPR, and local Iowa news organizations providing detailed accounts of the situation. However, it is essential to consider potential biases, particularly from sources that may have political affiliations or agendas related to immigration policy.

Conclusion

The claim that "Ukrainians in Iowa fear deportation as protections expire" is True. The evidence indicates that many Ukrainian refugees are facing significant uncertainty regarding their legal status due to recent policy changes and the expiration of protections that were previously in place. The emotional and practical implications of this situation are profound, as families grapple with the possibility of losing their ability to remain in the U.S. and the fear of returning to a war-torn homeland.

Fact Check: Ukrainians in Iowa fear deportation as protections expire.