Trump bans foreign students from Harvard in controversial national security move

DDM News

In a sudden and controversial decision, President Donald Trump has banned foreign students from beginning studies at Harvard University.

It marks a significant escalation in tensions between the Trump administration and elite academic institutions across the United States, Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports.

The statement reads: “I have determined that it is necessary to restrict the entry of foreign nationals to Harvard University.”

The restriction applies to students whose main reason for entering the United States is to study at Harvard.

This new policy casts uncertainty over the future of both new and current international students at the institution.

Current visa holders at Harvard may also face scrutiny, with possible reviews and revocations of their legal status.

President Trump defended the move, stating it was necessary to protect national security due to institutional non-cooperation.

He accused Harvard of failing to provide information regarding alleged misconduct involving some of its international students.

Trump said, “In my judgement, it presents an unacceptable risk to our Nation’s security.”

He also claimed foreign student admissions reduce academic opportunities for American citizens at top-tier universities.

“This is about putting American students first,” Trump declared during a press briefing on Wednesday night.

He criticized Harvard for favoring international applicants and discriminating against less-preferred groups within the United States.

Critics argue the ban is a direct attack on academic freedom and retaliation against dissenting universities.

Harvard has previously challenged the Trump administration’s immigration policies through legal means.

Earlier this month, a federal judge blocked Trump’s effort to limit Harvard’s admissions policies.

Observers believe the new proclamation is a response to Harvard’s ongoing opposition to federal policy.

Protests erupted at Harvard Yard shortly after the announcement, drawing large crowds of students and faculty.

Demonstrators rallied around the John Harvard statue, holding signs and chanting against the administration’s decision.

Many accused the government of using immigration laws to silence academic dissent and punish elite universities.

Harvard has not yet released an official response, but legal teams are reportedly reviewing the proclamation.

University lawyers are expected to explore options to challenge the ban through the courts.

International reactions were swift, with several governments condemning the restriction on foreign students.

Diplomats expressed concern that the policy could harm the United States’ global educational reputation.

A European diplomat stated, “If this can happen to Harvard, it can happen to any other institution.”

Educational leaders worldwide warn that the decision sets a dangerous precedent for academic access and freedom.

Observers fear the proclamation may signal broader restrictions for international students at American universities.

The academic community remains on edge, awaiting further legal battles and possible federal rollbacks.

For now, many foreign students hoping to study in the U.S. face deep uncertainty and disappointment.

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