by Nigerian News24 Correspondents
U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday defended his administration’s move to block Harvard University from enrolling foreign students, following a court order that temporarily halted the decision.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump criticized Harvard for having nearly 31% international students, accusing the university of lacking transparency and claiming that these students receive no financial backing from their home countries.
“We give Harvard billions, and it’s reasonable to ask who these foreign students are,” Trump said.
The controversy erupted after Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem revoked Harvard’s authority to admit foreign nationals, citing concerns over student visa holders allegedly involved in “illegal and violent activities.” Noem had earlier demanded the university release details on such students.
In response, Harvard filed a lawsuit, calling the action “unconstitutional” and “arbitrary.” A federal judge later issued a temporary block on the directive, allowing the school to continue admitting international students—for now.
The move is part of a broader crackdown on U.S. universities, with the Trump administration citing concerns about anti-Semitism and so-called “excessive diversity programs.” Officials have also targeted students involved in pro-Palestinian protests, alleging links to Hamas.
Last month, the administration froze $2.2 billion in federal funding to Harvard, and earlier this month, threatened to pull research grants entirely.