President Trump announced plans to allow 600,000 Chinese students into the U.S., more than double the current number, citing the importance of economic and educational ties.

The proposal drew sharp criticism from prominent Republicans, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and influencer Laura Loomer, who framed it as a threat to American students and a national security risk.

While Chinese students contribute billions to the U.S. economy, GOP lawmakers have long sought to restrict their visas, including through the Stop CCP VISAs Act, NBC News has reported.

Trump’s comments come amid easing U.S.-China tensions, though he also threatened steep tariffs if China does not export rare earth magnets to the U.S.