Rising Anti-Immigrant Sentiment in the U.S.
Former media professional Tetiana Kotenko, a Kyiv native who relocated to the United States after the full-scale war began and later moved to Europe, has described an escalation in anti-immigrant propaganda in America. According to Kotenko, the behavior of Americans has shifted, with interpersonal relationships becoming notably more strained, particularly along political lines. She pointed out that supporters of Donald Trump often equate opposition to him with opposition to the country itself, fostering a sense of national threat.
Kotenko shared a personal anecdote about a friend in the U.S. who backed Trump. Despite their close bond, the friendship ended abruptly after Kotenko posted a few sarcastic comments on social media. Her former friend reacted strongly and removed her from their contacts. This incident illustrates how deeply political views can fracture personal connections.
Economic Pressures and Political Promises
Beyond social tensions, Kotenko also highlighted rising gasoline prices during Joe Biden’s presidency, further exacerbated by Trump-era policies on Venezuela and Iran. She recounted a conversation with her landlord, who, when asked about fuel costs, replied:
“No big deal. It’ll all be ours soon”— implying hope for expanded American influence over other nations.
Since Donald Trump returned to power in January 2025, the U.S. has deported over 900,000 undocumented migrants. Economists warn that this mass expulsion could undermine American economic productivity. Kotenko noted that Trump’s base continues to believe in his populist pledges, which include:
- cashback programs
- job creation
- a return to the 'American Dream'
Kotenko shared her observations in an interview with the outlet Glavkom, emphasizing that anti-immigrant propaganda in the U.S. is growing increasingly aggressive.
The shifting attitudes toward immigrants described by Kotenko reflect broader socio-political trends in the country, where political divides now permeate everyday interactions. Rising fuel costs and their political ramifications further highlight the complex economic challenges Americans face, especially amid election promises. Stories like Kotenko’s underscore the need for dialogue and mutual understanding in a society grappling with heightened polarization.
As the landscape of political discourse shifts, the role of media in shaping public perception becomes increasingly critical. Recent reports indicate that government-affiliated outlets are amplifying negative narratives about immigrants, further complicating the already tense atmosphere described by Kotenko. Understanding these dynamics can provide deeper insights into the ongoing challenges faced by immigrant communities in the U.S.