Wichita Standard

During a Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee hearing, Senator Richard Blumenthal criticized the Trump Administration's decision to cancel flights for approximately 1,660 Afghan allies. These individuals, including family members of active-duty U.S. military personnel, were affected by President Donald Trump's order suspending U.S. refugee programs.

Blumenthal expressed his disapproval of the administration's actions: “I am incredibly disheartened that the Trump Administration is cancelling the flights of nearly 1,660 Afghan refugees who were already cleared by the U.S. government to resettle in the United States. These allies aided our troops in Afghanistan. Whatever you think about the conflict there – the risk to these Afghan allies is so dire and dangerous…And yet, those Afghan partner forces and their families are stuck at the risk of harm in areas around the world."

He emphasized America's obligation to support those who have assisted U.S. forces: "Our nation has a sacred promise to do right by the men and women who risk their lives for our freedoms and democracy – and do right for their families. That includes the Afghan translators, the guards, and others who put their backs in targets and became our loyal friends."

Blumenthal vowed to continue advocating for these individuals' resettlement in the United States: "I will keep fighting to ensure they are resettled in the United States and push back against any further attempt by the Administration to renege on our promises to our servicemembers, veterans, and Afghan allies.”

The senator is known for his efforts to secure aid and freedom for Afghan allies through initiatives like the Afghan Adjustment Act. This legislation would provide a pathway to permanent legal residency for Afghans seeking refuge in America after additional vetting.

A video of Blumenthal’s full statement regarding this issue is available online.