The Turkish Foreign Ministry has issued a statement detailing ongoing legal proceedings involving Turkish citizen Rümeysa Öztürk in the United States, emphasizing that her case is part of a broader legal issue affecting thousands of foreign students amid U.S. domestic political developments.

According to the ministry, Öztürk’s situation involves two separate judicial processes. The first is an immigration case in Louisiana, where a hearing on April 16 examined the legality of her visa revocation by U.S. authorities. A decision is expected on May 1, but the court denied Öztürk’s release on bail until that date. The Turkish Consul General in Houston has been closely monitoring the case and has visited Öztürk multiple times in Louisiana.

The second proceeding involves an objection to Öztürk’s detention, heard in Vermont on April 14. On April 18, the Vermont court ruled it has jurisdiction over the objection and ordered Öztürk’s transfer to Vermont by May 1. A bail hearing is scheduled for May 9. The Turkish Consul General in Boston, who followed the Vermont hearing, also held an online meeting with Öztürk.

The ministry refuted claims attempting to politicize Öztürk’s case, stating that consular support has been provided from the outset, consistent with assistance offered to Turkish citizens facing difficulties abroad. The ministry affirmed that both legal proceedings are being conducted with respect for Öztürk’s personal rights and in line with her and her family’s preferences.

The Turkish Foreign Ministry vowed to continue monitoring both cases closely and provide necessary support through all available channels. (ILKHA)