Minnesota: A nursing student who was filmed shouting “go back to your own country” at a Russian-born protester during a confrontation in Minnesota has withdrawn from the University of St. Thomas, according to a published report.
The student, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, apologised for her remarks in a statement, acknowledging that her behaviour was wrong and had caused hurt and disappointment.
“I take full responsibility for my behaviour,” she said, adding that she intended to learn from the incident and better understand the impact of her words and actions.
The confrontation took place outside a Turning Point USA event at the University of Minnesota last week. The event featured conservative activist Riley Gaines, while the protester, Derek Torstenson, was among those gathered outside. Footage shared online by male model Darnell Edwards showed the student directing an abusive remark at Torstenson as she entered the event.
The video subsequently attracted more than 10 million views and prompted widespread criticism on social media, with several users accusing the student of racist and discriminatory language.
Torstenson, who was adopted from Moscow at the age of two, said the apology did not go far enough and told the Daily Mail that the student should have been expelled, despite her withdrawal from the college.
The incident also sparked debate over Torstenson’s own conduct at protests. Images showed him carrying a fan bearing a vulgar word, leading to criticism that he may have used an offensive slur. Torstenson denied making threats and said the images of the fan were taken hours before his encounter with the student. He also described the fan as a joke rather than an insult directed at women.
The student said she regretted her actions and would use the experience as an opportunity to reflect and improve.
