MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota officials are seeking clarity in the concerning case of a graduate student from the University of Minnesota who has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for reasons that remain unspecified. The detainment occurred on a Thursday at the student’s off-campus residence, and university leadership reported that they were not given advance notice of ICE's actions and had not been informed by federal authorities prior to the incident. As a result, the name and nationality of the detained student have not been disclosed.
The lack of information regarding the circumstances of the student’s detention has prompted state and local leaders to urge federal authorities to provide an explanation. Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar expressed her concerns on social media, stating that her office is actively working to uncover details about this troubling situation. Klobuchar emphasized the importance of international students, deeming them a significant part of both the university and the wider community.
The detained student, who is studying at the business school on the Twin Cities campus, is receiving legal assistance and support services from the university during this challenging time. Despite the provision of support, the reason for the student’s detention remains unknown, with ICE officials not responding to inquiries from the Associated Press.
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz has communicated with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security regarding the incident, highlighting the university’s reputation as a leading international destination for education and research. In his social media statement, Walz underscored the presence of numerous international students in the state, reinforcing the call for transparency and answers from federal authorities.
Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey has also weighed in, describing the situation as “deeply troubling.” He emphasized the necessity for educational environments to cultivate a sense of safety and focus for all students, free from fear of detention or deportation.
Officials have committed to updating the public as more information about the case becomes available. The situation aligns with broader trends in U.S. immigration enforcement, particularly under the Trump administration, where there has been increased scrutiny on individuals connected to American educational institutions. This tightening of immigration policies has notably included actions against individuals expressing support for Palestinian causes, with the administration referencing a rarely used statute that allows for visa revocation of noncitizens perceived to potentially threaten U.S. foreign policy interests.
In recent weeks, over half a dozen individuals have reportedly faced custody or deportation as part of these enforcement actions. In response, a rally was organized by the graduate labor union at the university, taking place outside the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office in downtown Minneapolis. The protest drew dozens of supporters who stood in solidarity with international students who are facing increasing uncertainty under the current immigration climate.
U.S. Senator Tina Smith also expressed her concern on social media, describing international students as vital assets to the University of Minnesota. Smith expressed empathy towards their plight, noting the challenges they face when adapting to a new environment far from home, and the fear that arises from the knowledge that one of their peers has been detained by ICE.
This unfolding situation highlights the fragility of status faced by international students in the U.S. amid shifting immigration policies and growing enforcement actions, leading to heightened anxieties and calls for action from community leaders and university officials alike.
