Washington D.C. – The United States has announced the suspension of all visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, effective immediately. The move signals a hardening stance by the current administration on immigration and national security concerns.
The decision, described by some observers as a significant diplomatic shock, affects a wide range of nations, including major global players and countries grappling with political instability. Russia, Iran, and Somalia are among the nations impacted, alongside a substantial list of countries Washington deems uncooperative on deportation matters or posing potential security risks.
The suspension encompasses tourist, student, and business visas, effectively halting travel to the United States for citizens of these countries until further notice.
The administration reportedly views the visa freeze as a tool to exert political and security pressure. A primary focus is on nations that refuse to accept the return of their citizens deported from the United States. Concerns have also been raised regarding the adequacy of identification systems in some of these countries, with the US government citing potential threats to domestic security. In certain instances, the decision appears to be a reciprocal measure in response to restrictions imposed on American diplomats or citizens abroad.
The announcement is expected to draw international criticism, potentially disrupting the plans of students, researchers, and investors. Furthermore, it could strain diplomatic relations with the affected countries. Some analysts have characterized the move as a digital iron curtain, restricting the free movement of people.
The comprehensive list of affected countries includes: Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Antigua and Barbuda, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belarus, Belize, Bhutan, Bosnia, Brazil, Burma, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Colombia, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Dominica, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gambia, Georgia, Ghana, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Iraq, Jamaica, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Macedonia, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Nepal, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of Congo, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan…
