Congressional Hispanic Caucus chair Rep. Raul Ruiz (D-Calif.) is calling on President Joe Biden to raise the refugee admissions cap for this fiscal year in light of the humanitarian crisis caused by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
“Russia’s unprovoked attack on Ukraine has created an escalating humanitarian crisis. The United States must respond by opening its arms to those seeking safety and security. I ask that you issue an Emergency Presidential Determination raising refugee admissions for the remainder of Fiscal Year 2022, expedite family reunification of Ukrainians in the United States, and do everything possible to rebuild the U.S. Refugee Admission Program,” Ruiz said in a letter to Biden.
The refugee cap for fiscal year 2022, which runs through the end of September, is currently set at 125,000.
Ukrainians have been battling to defend their country against Russia’s brutal onslaught. Many people have already fled Ukraine because of the chaos and carnage.
“While the headlines are currently focused the war in Ukraine, our country should strengthen its commitment to provide refuge to all people fleeing violence and oppression,” the letter said.
“The CHC firmly believes that whether someone is fleeing for their life from a Russian dictator or a drug cartel, the United States should provide the safety and security that refugees need. Our commitment cannot end at this crisis, but instead we must embrace our international commitments and our responsibilities to the vulnerable. Our country cannot only protect one group; we must protect everyone seeking freedom,” the letter declared.