Trump claims illegal immigration is down to “zero” as US authorities plan a sweeping crackdown targeting Somali immigrants in Minnesota, escalating tension and deportation fears.
US President Donald Trump on Tuesday claimed that no illegal immigrants had been released into the United States in the past six months as his administration continues its tough approach to immigration.
Trump explained during a cabinet meeting, “For six months in a row, zero illegal aliens have been admitted into the United States. Do you believe that? Zero. We had millions of people coming in a year. Millions. Now we have zero for six months.” He argued the country had moved from “millions” of arrivals to “zero,” presenting it as a major achievement in his border crackdown.
Planned operation in Minnesota raises tensions
Trump’s comments came as federal officials prepare for a sweeping immigration enforcement operation in Minnesota. As reported by AP, the operation would primarily focus on Somali immigrants in the Minneapolis–St. Paul region who already have final orders of deportation.
Teams of immigration officers are expected to conduct a high-priority sweep in the coming days, although the plan may still change. This will likely heighten tensions in the state, which has the largest Somali population in the US.
Community leaders say Trump’s repeated comments about Somalis — including claims that they “have caused a lot of trouble” — are increasing fears of profiling and distrust.
Many Somalis arrived in Minnesota as refugees fleeing civil war in the 1990s. With strong resettlement support and a growing diaspora, they have since become an important part of the state’s communities and politics.
Trump posted on Truth Social on November 21 that “Somali gangs are terrorizing the people of that great State, and BILLIONS of Dollars are missing,” while announcing an end to Temporary Protected Status for Somalis “effective immediately.” He added, “Send them back to where they came from. It’s OVER!”
