Biden administration eases immigration status for Ukrainians amid Russian conflict

The Department of Homeland Security on Thursday announced that Ukrainians will be granted temporary refuge in the United States.

"Russia’s premeditated and unprovoked attack on Ukraine has resulted in an ongoing war, senseless violence, and Ukrainians forced to seek refuge in other countries," Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas said.

Ukrainians who resided in the United States before March 1, 2022, are eligible for Temporary Protected Status for 18 months. 

"In these extraordinary times, we will continue to offer our support and protection to Ukrainian nationals in the United States," Mayorkas stressed.

The agency said the designation was made due to the ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions preventing Ukrainians from returning home.

The Russian aggression against Ukraine is the "largest conventional military action in Europe since World War II," DHS noted.

"This invasion has caused a humanitarian crisis with significant numbers of individuals fleeing and damage to civilian infrastructure that has left many without electricity or water or access to food, basic supplies, shelter, and emergency medical services," DHS stated.