U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Defends Immigration Raids During London Meeting

Tue Oct 21 2025 00:44:14 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

In a recent meeting of the Five Eyes nations, Kristi Noem addresses the fallout from immigration raids at a Hyundai plant in Georgia, asserting that such actions won't deter foreign investment.

During a meeting in London with officials from Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem discussed the U.S. government's recent immigration raids at a Hyundai plant in Georgia, which resulted in the detention of 475 workers. While the raids have sparked confusion and criticism from South Korea, Noem emphasized the clarity of U.S. policies. She reassured potential investors that robust enforcement actions align with transparent regulations aimed at bolstering the U.S. economy, while also tackling unauthorized migration. Noem reinforced that deportations would occur for those who ignored removal orders, stating that 'Nothing’s on hold. Everything is full speed ahead.'

During a significant meeting in London, U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem defended the recent U.S. immigration raids that led to the detention of hundreds of South Korean workers at a Hyundai plant in Georgia.

In the controversial September 4 raid, 475 individuals were detained, which has generated shock and confusion among the South Korean public and government officials.

Noem stated that these actions reinforce a clear stance on U.S. immigration policies: This is a great opportunity for us to make sure that all companies are reassured that when you come to the United States, you will know what the rules of the game are. At the gathering, which included ministers from Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, discussions focused on enhancing border security and combating gang-related crimes.

She noted that the detained workers would primarily face deportation for ignoring removal orders, with a few facing further legal consequences for criminal activity. Noem emphasized that the objective of these operations is to encourage companies to employ U.S. citizens and to follow the law when bringing workers into the country.

Newly appointed U.K. Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood praised the cooperative efforts among the Five Eyes nations, citing shared goals, yet acknowledged the unique migration challenges each country faces. Noem concluded that despite criticisms regarding the aggressive enforcement strategies of the Trump administration, her department would continue its rigorous approach to immigration enforcement.