The Trump administration is reportedly looking into placing a cap on refugee admissions to about 40,000 people in 2026, with a considerable number potentially being white South Africans, according to a Friday report by Reuters.

Two officials familiar with the talks and an email from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) suggest that around 30,000 of those spots could be allocated for Africans. Since President Trump took office, discussions have surrounded the violence and discrimination faced by minority communities in South Africa, primarily targeting those of Dutch descent.

White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated, “Outlets like Reuters have long overlooked the persecution of Africans who have suffered horrific events, including rape and murder, while the government has neglected to protect them. President Trump has a humanitarian heart, allowing these brave individuals to seek refuge in the United States. The final numbers for refugee admissions will be determined next month, and what we’re discussing now is just speculation.”

Trump previously signed a Presidential Order in May aimed at promoting the resettlement of African refugees, which has documented the harsh realities they face due to racial discrimination and violence in their home countries.

His directives criticize the South African government for neglecting citizen rights and implementing policies that dismantle equal opportunities, combined with rhetoric and actions fostering violence against disadvantaged groups.

According to reports, HHS officials have informed state-level refugee coordinators that the expected cap for 2026 will be 40,000, representing a sharp decline from the 100,000 refugee admissions recognized under former President Biden in 2024.

In May, during a White House conference with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Trump expressed concerns about potential “genocide” against white South Africans and emphasized the discrimination and violent attacks occurring against African communities.

The first group of 59 African refugees has reportedly arrived, with additional arrivals by early August. Some advocacy groups, like Bishop’s Immigration Services, chose to discontinue their partnership with the federal government after Trump’s push for African resettlement initiatives.