As protections expire, Ukrainians who escaped war face an uncertain future

Standing outside the Ukrainian American Community Center, Oleksii Chyrka's anxiety is increasing.

"We are uncertain; we have no idea what to do next," Chyrka tells NPR through a Ukrainian interpreter.

As soon as this week, things could drastically change for Chyrka who, along with his wife, and three kids, could lose his legal status in the U.S. after living here since 2023. That could also mean he will lose his work permit, and his jobs as a cabinet maker and FedEx driver.