January 4, 2025
Alexander A. Krasnyanskiy, Esq,
Gleb A. Paserba, Asylum Coordinator
ICE Detains Ukrainian National Admitted Under U4U Despite Lawful Entry and Pending Re-Parole
Dmitry K., a citizen of Ukraine, entered the United States legally approximately two and a half years ago under the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program, following the invitation and authorization extended by the U.S. government. He settled in Minneapolis, where he has lived continuously since his arrival. He worked in construction, including gutter installation and related labor, supporting his wife and young daughter.
Mr. K. has serious medical conditions and has spent significant time hospitalized in the United States. Despite these health issues, he has remained fully compliant with all immigration requirements. He has no criminal history whatsoever, not even minor infractions such as traffic violations. Before the expiration of his parole, he timely filed an application for re-parole as authorized by law. That application remains pending with USCIS.
On the morning of January 1, 2026, Mr. K. was abruptly detained by ICE. He was charged as an alien without status, despite the existence of a pending, bona fide, and approvable re-parole application. He was taken into custody without warning and transferred to a detention facility approximately three hours away from his home in Minneapolis.
ICE has refused to release him, notwithstanding his lawful entry, lack of violations, medical condition, and pending application. As of five days after his detention, no court dates have been scheduled.
The detention has caused severe consequences for the family. Mr. K’s wife is now the sole caregiver for their child and can no longer work. She has been left without clear guidance or resources and is surviving primarily through the assistance of friends. The family is experiencing significant emotional and financial distress.
Mr. K. himself is suffering in detention due to the lack of meaningful medical care for his existing conditions. His health has deteriorated while in custody.
This case illustrates another instance in which a lawfully admitted individual with no violations, pending lawful status, and significant humanitarian factors has been detained, separating a family and placing both the detainee and those left behind under extreme strain.
Comments or suggestions?
Contact Gleb Paserba or Alexander A. Krasnyanskiy.
January 5th, 2026