President Trump Announces Indefinite Halt to Migration from 'Third World Countries' Following National Guard Shooting

President Donald Trump has announced a "permanent pause" on migration from unspecified "Third World Countries" following a fatal shooting near the White House. In a late-night social media post, he stated his administration would "end all federal benefits and subsidies to noncitizens" and deport individuals deemed security risks or incompatible with "Western civilization."

The announcement comes after the death of National Guard Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, 20, who was fatally wounded in the attack. Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, 24, remains in critical condition. The suspect, identified as 29-year-old Afghan national Rahmanullah Lakanwal, entered the U.S. in 2021 under Operation Allies Welcome and was granted asylum in April 2025. He had previously worked with CIA-backed units in Afghanistan.

In response to the incident, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has suspended processing of immigration applications from Afghan nationals pending a review of security and vetting protocols. Additionally, USCIS Director Joseph Edlow announced a comprehensive review of all green card holders from 19 countries deemed "countries of concern."

The United Nations has urged the U.S. to maintain access and due process for asylum seekers, emphasizing that individuals are entitled to protection under international law.

The motive behind the shooting remains under investigation. Authorities have issued search warrants in Washington state and other areas as part of the ongoing inquiry.