Ukrainian refugees flock to U.S.-Mexico border

Civilians fleeing bombings and war crimes in Ukraine have found that the fastest way into the United States is through Mexico. Roughly 400 Ukrainians were allowed into San Diego on Wednesday on humanitarian parole, while about 700 more arrived in Tijuana and camped out while awaiting entry. Nearly 300 Ukrainians are being admitted daily at the San Ysidro crossing, and members of a loose church-based volunteer coalition say nearly 1,000 are on waiting lists. The Biden administration plans to accept up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees, and most appear to be arriving through Mexico so far.

What else is the government doing? In a rare unanimous vote Thursday, the Senate suspended normal trade relations with Russia and banned Russian oil imports. President Joe Biden already ordered these through an executive order, but the congressional votes put the sanctions into law. Biden also placed sanctions on more Russian banks and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s two adult daughters. Experts predict Russia’s gross domestic product will contract by up to 15 percent this year, and inflation in the country is already spiking. Also on Thursday, the UN General Assembly suspended Russia’s seat on the Human Rights Council.

Dig deeper: Read WORLD’s latest coverage of the ongoing war.