Columbia Student's Detention Spurs Campus Vigil, Trump Intervenes for Release

February 26, 2026
Columbia Student's Detention Spurs Campus Vigil, Trump Intervenes for Release
  • A Columbia University student, Elaina Aghayeva, was detained by DHS agents who allegedly misrepresented themselves, prompting swift responses from campus and city officials.

  • Mamdani revealed on social media that he alerted Trump to the arrest, and Trump reportedly agreed to secure Aghayeva’s release.

  • Columbia’s acting president stated the university is gathering information, will inform the student’s family, and will provide legal support, while keeping the student’s identity and immigration status private.

  • The story is developing, with authorities and outlets urging readers to stay tuned for updates.

  • The incident feeds into a broader national debate over immigration enforcement, campus safety, and due process, including related legal rulings and policy tensions.

  • Colleges are balancing immigration enforcement with campus safety and due process amid evolving state and university policies.

  • Context includes ongoing debates about enforcement under the current administration and student concerns about safety and housing protections.

  • New York City officials and Columbia officials criticized ICE’s actions, calling for legal protocol adherence and judicial warrants for access to housing.

  • DHS and some brands have yet to comment; Columbia and local reporters continue coverage of the developing story.

  • Columbia announced an emergency campus vigil at noon, signaling renewed mobilization and concern on campus.

  • The coverage includes reporting by The Associated Press and reactions from the university community.

  • Columbia and its community have protested the incident, citing concerns about due process and campus surveillance.

Summary based on 21 sources


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