U.S. President Donald Trump has described Somalia as “barely a country” and called Somali immigrants “garbage.” He said he did not want such people in the United States, warning that the nation would head in the wrong direction if it continued to admit “garbage” across its borders. Trump made these remarks during a Cabinet meeting, acknowledging that some might view his statements as politically incorrect but insisting he did not care.
Earlier, Trump discussed refugees in the United States, using Minnesota as an example. He claimed the state had been “significantly impacted by hundreds of thousands of refugees from Somalia,” which he said was a primary cause of social problems. He also announced the termination of a Somali protection program in Minnesota that currently affects only a few hundred individuals.
Trump targeted Somali‑born Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, referring to her and her friends as “garbage.” The comment came amid a high‑profile welfare‑fraud case in Minnesota involving several dozen Somali residents accused of defrauding the state’s system of hundreds of millions of dollars. Omar responded that Trump’s “obsession” with her was “creepy” and expressed hope that he would get the help he needs.
U.S. media have reported potential Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids aimed at Somali migrants in Minneapolis and St. Paul, Minnesota. According to The New York Times, the operation could target hundreds of Somalis lacking proper residency papers. Minnesota is home to the largest Somali community in the United States, with over 60,000 people of Somali origin, most of whom reside in the state legally. The prospect of ICE raids has sparked concern within the community, which is awaiting further developments.
Trump’s comments have reignited debate over immigration and refugee policies in the United States. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the government will address issues surrounding Somali immigrants and broader immigration reform.
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