A high-stakes deportation drama is unfolding for a Ukrainian family that has become an integral part of Ohio community life. The Vashchuks' fate hangs in the balance as they face removal from the United States despite having built a successful pierogi food business, established ties with local officials, and contributed to their adopted homeland. Tamila and Mykola Vashchuk, along with their 10-year-old son, had seemingly secured their place in America, but recent events have cast a shadow over their future.
Four years ago, the family's son was diagnosed with developmental delays and hormonal deficiencies, prompting them to seek affordable medical treatment in Ukraine. After consulting US Citizenship and Immigration Services and Customs and Border Protection officials beforehand, Tamila and her son received assurances that they would be allowed to re-enter the US with their humanitarian parole status intact.
However, upon returning via Boston Logan airport in December 2022, Tamila and her son were met with removal orders from authorities. The officials claimed they had breached the terms of their parole by leaving the country without permission. In contrast, Mykola, who entered the US only once, is not facing deportation.
The potential consequences for the family are dire, particularly in light of the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian conflict. Maintaining the son's critical medication regimen, which requires daily refrigeration, would be extremely challenging – if not impossible – in Ukraine, where attacks have crippled energy infrastructure and reduced power generation capacity by 50%.
The Cleveland immigration court, handling their case, has a notorious record of denying asylum applications. Research from TRAC at Syracuse University reveals that Cleveland judges have rejected over 70% of such requests for several years. The assigned judge in the Vashchuks' case boasts one of the highest denial rates in the country.
A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson has confirmed that Tamila and her son will receive due process before an August immigration hearing, which may determine their fate. With a deep connection to America and two master's degrees between them, the Vashchuks are desperate to stay – but their future remains uncertain.