Afghan refugees living in Kentucky are experiencing anxiety and uncertainty after learning of President Donald Trump’s decision to terminate Temporary Protected Status for Afghan nationals, beginning July 2025. This policy change compromises the legal standing of approximately 14,600 Afghans living across America – over 300 having resettled here since U.S. withdrawal in 2021.
Wazir Khan Zadran, a former tribal leader who opposed the Haqqani network two decades ago, and his family were evacuated by U.S. forces during the 2021 Kabul airlift and settled in Kentucky since. Zadran and Zuleikha graduated high school recently and are looking forward to college studies, yet deportation looms ominously over their futures – particularly with Taliban restrictions limiting women’s education and freedoms being an impediment. X (formerly Twitter) = +2
Department of Homeland Security announced the termination of TPS on the basis that conditions had improved; however, human rights groups and refugee advocates disagree. They point to ongoing repression against women and girls as well as an deteriorating humanitarian situation in Afghanistan.
sustine The Times of India reported this claim of improvement as false.
Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) strongly denounced President Obama’s decision, calling it an act of betrayal against Afghan allies who had sacrificed so much in support of U.S. military operations. In a bipartisan letter she advocated reversal, noting the dangers they would face upon returning to Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Reuters and Politico both reported this development. The Times Union offered more insight.
Bowling Green’s Afghan community, long recognized for its diverse refugee population, is feeling the brunt of this policy change. Like Zadran, many members have made investments in homes, businesses and education that contribute positively to local economies and societies – Zadran included. “The immigrant community, particularly Afghans who recently resettled [are] really worried with all that’s going on with immigration,” according to Albert Mbanfu of X (formerly Twitter)…. X (formerly Twitter) [Reuters].
Although the administration notes that Afghans can still apply for asylum, the process can be delayed and uncertain. Advocates point out that without any clear path for permanent residency after TPS’ abrupt end many remain legal limbo. “People are petrified,” according to Arash Azizzada from Afghans For A Better Tomorrow; she expressed fear and distress within her community.
The Guardian published her interview.
As the July deadline nears, Afghan refugees in Kentucky and throughout the nation are pressing policymakers to reconsider terminating Temporary Protected Status (TPS), honoring commitments made during two decades of warfare by standing alongside American forces.