Washington – U.S. President Donald Trump has announced the immediate cancellation of deportation protections for Somali nationals living in the state of Minnesota, sending shockwaves through one of the largest Somali diaspora communities in the world. In a strongly worded post shared online, President Trump stated: "Somali gangs are terrorizing the people of that great State, and BILLIONS of Dollars are missing. Send them back to where they came from. It's OVER!" The message has triggered widespread fear among Somali immigrants and families in Minnesota, many of whom have lived in the United States for decades and built stable communities.

 

 

 What Does the Decision Mean?

The order affects Somali nationals who were granted "deportation protection” status due to long-term conflict, insecurity and humanitarian emergency in Somalia. The termination means:

• Deportation cases can now be reopened

• Work permits may be suspended or rejected

• Travel and immigration renewals may become impossible

Minnesota is home to the largest Somali population in the U.S., with tens of thousands of Somali-American citizens, permanent residents and immigrants.

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Voices from the Somali Community

Community leaders and activists in Minnesota call the decision "a direct attack on a peaceful immigrant population”.

Many Somali parents say they fear being separated from their children and losing the lives they have built over decades.

A Minneapolis resident stated:

"We work, we pay taxes, we raise our families here. Why are we being targeted?”

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 Experts Predict Legal Challenges

Immigration analysts suggest the decision will likely face legal pushback, arguing that sudden revocation could violate procedural protections in U.S. law.

"If implemented without a transition period, thousands could be affected overnight,” an immigration lawyer warned.

Human rights groups also raised concerns that mass removal to Somalia could endanger deportees due to insecurity and lack of social support systems.

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 Impact Beyond Minnesota

Observers say the move could reshape U.S.–Somalia relations and increase political tension during a critical period for the Horn of Africa. It also signals a broader shift in U.S. immigration and refugee policy.

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 Conclusion

The Somali community in Minnesota now faces uncertainty, anxiety and the possibility of family separation. Community organizations, legal groups and international observers are closely monitoring the situation as reactions continue to intensify.

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By: Dahir Abdulle Alasow
Investigative Journalist