A foreign national from Afghanistan, brought to the United States during the Biden administration, targeted National Guard personnel, prompting the Trump administration to launch a full review of all Afghans in the country. White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt announced the measures at a press conference.
Leavitt said the U.S. has paused visas for Afghans worldwide and temporarily halted asylum applications from all third-world countries. “These steps protect the American people and our national security,” she said.
Addressing reporters, Leavitt warned that thousands of Afghans brought to the U.S. under the previous administration still pose potential security risks. She said all Afghans in the country are undergoing renewed screening, legal immigration programs are being strengthened, and illegal immigrants must return to their home countries.
“U.S. visas are a privilege, not a right,” Leavitt said, noting that security concerns and criminal records of several Afghan nationals prompted the visa pause and temporary deferment of asylum requests.
Leavitt also highlighted ongoing U.S. military operations targeting drug smuggling and terrorist activities on international waters. She updated the public on President Trump’s health, saying his heart and other organs are in excellent condition and MRI reports have been made public.
On domestic politics, Leavitt said 90% of Republican members of Congress see Trump as a strong leader. She criticized fraud among Somali refugees and misuse of COVID-19 relief funds, adding that those exploiting U.S. laws have no right to remain in the country.
Regarding foreign policy, Leavitt confirmed that Special Envoy Witkoff will meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. She also said Trump has halted blank-check aid to Ukraine over corruption concerns.
Leavitt announced that the White House has launched a public database exposing journalists and media outlets spreading misinformation, aiming to increase transparency.
She concluded by saying President Trump will chair the ninth Cabinet meeting tomorrow and will soon launch “Trump Accounts,” a new savings program for the next generation of Americans.
