As Donald Trump gears up for a potential second term as president, the ramifications of his leadership are a source of considerable anxiety among Ukrainians and Russian dissidents in the United States, particularly in relation to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump has previously claimed that he could conclude the conflict “in one day,” but those who have sought refuge in the U.S. express skepticism about the effectiveness and morality of his potential solutions. Dmytro Vovk, a Ukrainian law professor who fled the war in 2022, voices concerns that Trump might pursue a “dirty deal” that sacrifices Ukraine’s interests for the sake of peace. These remarks echo broader fears among the 270,000 Ukrainian immigrants in the U.S. regarding their future and the possible erosion of humanitarian programs designed to support them, such as the Uniting for Ukraine scheme that provides temporary protected status.
Personal experiences underscore the harsh realities of the war and its consequences on civilian life. Vovk recounts the frightening moments his family endured during the shelling of Kharkiv, which prompted their decision to leave Ukraine. The trauma experienced by his children emphasizes the emotional toll of the conflict, reinforcing the urgency of their move to a safer environment. As a member of a secular Jewish, Russian-speaking family, Vovk reflects on his relatively secure position in the U.S. with the hope of continuing to contribute positively to society. However, he remains cognizant of the precarious situation of many other Ukrainian refugees, for whom the future remains uncertain and potentially shaped by a volatile Trump administration.
Concerns about Trump’s intentions extend beyond immigration policy, delving into broader geopolitical considerations. Vovk references Trump and JD Vance’s controversial proposals, which could involve ceding territory to Russia as part of a peace plan. This perspective raises alarms among Ukrainian advocates, including Doug Klain from Razom for Ukraine, who stresses the importance of securing military assistance and aid commitments from the current administration before any potential shifts in policy under Trump. Although Klain sees some signs of flexibility in Vance’s stance, the underlying wariness persists, illustrating the complicated dynamics within the diplomatic and military strategies surrounding the conflict.
For Russian dissidents like Alexander Borochkin, the stakes are similarly high as they navigate their new lives in the U.S. after fleeing oppression. Borochkin’s harrowing journey to seek asylum—through Mexico and facing bureaucratic challenges—highlights the obstacles that many dissidents must overcome just to reach safety. His concerns about increasing immigration restrictions reflect a broader sentiment among refugees fearing that a more hardline Trump administration will make it increasingly difficult for individuals escaping authoritarian regimes to find refuge. Industry observers, including Dmitri Glinski, express pessimism about the landscape for immigrant rights and democracy advocacy under a potential Trump presidency, marking a stark contrast to the prior administration’s policies.
Despite these fears, some voices express cautious hope regarding Trump’s presidency. As Borochkin suggests, Trump could be swayed by intelligence briefings that shed light on the complexities of the Ukraine situation, potentially leading to a recalibration of his policies. This notion resonates with advocates who argue that Trump’s leadership might present both risks and opportunities, implying that there could be chances for substantial support for Ukraine alongside challenges to their rights. With Biden’s administration criticized for providing limited assistance, the prospect of a more unpredictable Trump offers a “roll of the dice” that some hope may yield better outcomes than before.
Within the multifaceted community of Ukrainian and Russian refugees in the U.S., reactions to Trump’s potential return are mixed. While some Ukrainian immigrants harbor a sense of irrational optimism regarding Trump’s promises, Vovk expresses frustration with this perspective. Many within the refugee community are fatigued and anxious about their status, wary of the political machinations that could undermine their current protections and the overall support for Ukraine. The dichotomy between hope and skepticism surrounding Trump’s potential policies underscores the broader uncertainties in the geopolitical landscape, leaving many feeling caught between the desire for peace and the potential sacrifices that may accompany it. As Thanksgiving approaches, the lingering questions about the future of Ukraine and the fate of refugees in the U.S. loom large over their celebrations.
