Afghans living in the US condemned the deadly shooting in Washington, stressing that the suspect, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, who came to the US four years ago through the US Forces Associate Program, does not represent their community. National Guard member Sarah Beckstrom (20) was killed in the attack, while her colleague Andrew Wolfe (24) is fighting for his life.
After the incident, President Donald Trump suspended the processing of all immigration applications from Afghanistan, ordered a review of green cards issued in 19 countries and announced possible broader restrictions. The Afghan community in the US expressed its condolences to the families of the victims, but also appealed not to stop the process of Afghan immigration, recalling the two-decade partnership between the two countries.
Afghans in the US point out that this is an isolated criminal act and that most of them live as working and responsible members of society. Lakanwal cooperated with US forces at Kabul airport during the 2021 withdrawal, according to officials. He arrived in the USA the same year, and was granted asylum in 2024.
Many Afghans fear that political backlash could threaten their status, especially due to insecurity at home. Activist Crystal Bayat warned that the policy change could also endanger those who have already obtained permanent residency, stressing that it is dangerous to punish entire communities for individual acts.
(Vijesti.ba)
