U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the immediate revocation of all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders. This decision stems from South Sudan’s refusal to accept the repatriation of its citizens who are subject to deportation from the U.S.
Marco emphasized that this action is part of a broader strategy to enforce immigration laws and ensure that nations comply with international obligations regarding the acceptance of their nationals. Rubio stated that the U.S. expects full cooperation from all countries in accepting deported citizens and will reconsider the visa revocation if South Sudan complies.
This measure affects all South Sudanese nationals holding U.S. visas, including those with scheduled visa appointments, which have been canceled. The issuance of new visas for South Sudanese citizens has also been suspended until further notice.
The U.S. has previously imposed visa restrictions on individuals in South Sudan deemed to be obstructing peace efforts or involved in corruption. However, this blanket revocation marks a significant escalation in U.S. policy toward the East African nation.
This development occurs amid escalating tensions in South Sudan, where recent political instability and armed conflicts have raised international concerns about a potential return to civil war.
