Turmoil rocks Columbia University as Trump administration demands changes or else
Briefly

The Trump administration issued an ultimatum to Columbia University, threatening cuts to federal funding unless the university imposed strict controls over its Middle Eastern, South Asian, and African Studies Department. In a letter dated March 13, federal officials demanded the department operate under academic receivership for five years, without providing clear justification. Columbia's leadership is currently reviewing this demand, while the administration has previously canceled $400 million in federal contracts, citing failures to address antisemitism amid heightened scrutiny following campus protests. The situation emphasizes ongoing tensions between the university and federal authorities.
The Trump administration has threatened Columbia University, demanding changes in its international studies department and disciplinary procedures, under the threat of cutting federal funding.
Columbia University leaders are reviewing a letter from the government, which calls for the international studies program to be placed under academic receivership without clear justification.
Amid escalating tensions, the Trump administration has already canceled significant federal grants to Columbia, citing issues related to antisemitism and protests that have drawn public attention.
University officials reaffirmed their commitment to addressing discrimination on campus while responding to the administration's ultimatum, highlighting the challenges they face in navigating federal demands.
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