Trump administration advances Afrikaner refugee plan and faces Social Security shortfall

The United States, under President Donald Trump, announced a policy to grant refugee status to white South Africans, describing them as Afrikaners fleeing violence. New York Times reports that arriving refugees will receive "welcome bags" containing an Android tablet, an American flag, founding documents and literature that "downplay[ed] the role of slavery" and accused the South African government of "favoring the Black population." The policy excludes refugees from other nations.

Separately, the Social Security trustees warned that the retirement‑benefit trust fund could run out of money, potentially cutting benefits by about 22 % by the end of 2032. Average monthly benefits are $2,081 (£1,570). The shortfall is attributed to reduced payroll‑tax revenue, an aging population and broader fiscal pressures on the federal budget.