U.S. Immigration Policies Spark Concern Amid Global Talks

Tue Sep 30 2025 08:20:14 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defends stringent immigration measures during international discussions on migration and security in London, asserting that such actions clarify U.S. policies for potential investors.

During a meeting in London with ministers from allied nations, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem addressed the fallout from a recent immigration raid at a Hyundai plant in Georgia. She reassured businesses that the U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration aim to provide a clear regulatory environment and enhance national security. Despite criticisms surrounding aggressive deportation measures, Noem emphasized the need for tough policies while clarifying that there are currently no plans to expand immigration raids in major cities like Chicago.

LONDON (AP) — U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem spoke out on Monday about the recent immigration raid that led to the detention of hundreds of workers at a Hyundai plant in Georgia, claiming it would not deter investment in the United States. Over 300 of those detained were South Korean nationals, a move that sparked confusion and dismay among the allied nation.

This is an opportunity to demonstrate to companies investing in the U.S. that they can rely on the clarity of our rules, Noem stated during a meeting in London alongside ministers from the ‘Five Eyes’ intelligence-sharing alliance focused on tackling issues like unauthorized migration and the spread of criminal activities.

She urged companies looking to expand in the U.S. to prioritize hiring local citizens while implementing lawful hiring practices for foreign nationals. Most of the detained Koreans were facing deportation due to previous legal challenges, with only a few linked to criminal activities facing additional penalties.

Noem indicated that despite the potential rise in tensions due to current policies, there was agreement among international ministers regarding the necessity to combat smuggling and enhance information-sharing capabilities, emphasizing the collaborative efforts in securing borders.

Furthermore, she denied that there were any proposals or plans robustly discussed concerning a suspension or change in the extent of immigration raids or the deployment of the National Guard in urban areas facing immigration challenges.

Highlighting a commitment to safeguarding American security, Noem assured reporters, Everything is full speed ahead with our operations as needed to maintain safety in our country. The international discourse reflects a complex dynamic where countries confront immigration challenges in differing ways while navigating political landscapes and legal frameworks.