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Türkiye’s first floating gas platform arrives at Black Sea port
Türkiye’s first floating natural gas production platform, Osman Gazi, reached Filyos Port in Zonguldak on May 31.
U.S. Evaluates Future of Afghan Resettlement Program Amid Policy Review
Reuters
The U.S. State Department office responsible for Afghan resettlement is reviewing plans to close by April, according to officials and sources familiar with the matter. The move, part of a broader government review, could impact thousands of Afghans awaiting relocation to the United States.
The Office of the Coordinator for Afghan Relocation Efforts (CARE) was established during the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan in 2021 to assist Afghans eligible for resettlement. Initially a temporary initiative, CARE became a permanent program in October 2022 and has since facilitated the relocation of approximately 118,000 people.
Under the current review, options are being considered for the office’s future, including the potential closure of processing centers in Qatar and Albania, where nearly 3,000 Afghans, including unaccompanied minors, are waiting for final relocation steps.
Government Review & Policy Adjustments:
The review aligns with President Trump’s broader efforts to reassess government programs, streamline spending, and adjust foreign aid policies. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem are among those expected to evaluate the next steps.
The potential changes could affect:
110,000 Afghans in Afghanistan with pending SIV or refugee applications.
40,000 individuals already cleared for relocation awaiting final processing.
50,000 more in 90 countries, including Pakistan, in various stages of resettlement.
Advocacy groups have expressed concern about the program’s future, noting its role in supporting those who worked alongside the U.S. during the 20-year engagement in Afghanistan.
Impact & Next Steps:
Trump’s administration has initiated a 90-day review of the refugee program to assess its effectiveness and alignment with foreign policy priorities. Meanwhile, organizations involved in relocation efforts continue to work with officials to explore solutions for those affected.
The White House and the State Department have not commented on the discussions. As the review progresses, officials are expected to weigh various options to ensure a balanced approach that considers policy priorities and commitments made to Afghan partners.
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German Chancellor Merz to visit Trump next week
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will travel to Washington next week to meet U.S. President Donald Trump.
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Bridge collapse in Russia’s Bryansk region kills at least seven, injures 30
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Cambodia PM urges patience in border dispute with Thailand after soldier’s death
Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet said Saturday that the border conflict with Thailand “must be resolved with patience and through legal and diplomatic channels.”
03:05
Iran’s foreign minister warns IAEA chief in phone call ahead of board meeting
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi spoke by phone with IAEA Director Rafael Mariano Grossi, warning that any political actions against Iran at next week’s Board of Governors meeting would have consequences.
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