The U.S. has revoked all visas for South Sudanese passport holders due to the South Sudanese government’s failure to accept repatriated citizens. Future visa issuance is suspended until compliance is observed. The U.S. Embassy in Khartoum has halted operations due to the dire humanitarian situation. This reflects a broader trend in U.S. immigration enforcement, including actions against Venezuelans under previous administrations.
On Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the revocation of visas held by South Sudanese passport holders, with immediate implementation and a halt on future visa issuance. This decision stems from South Sudan’s transitional government failing to accept the prompt return of repatriated citizens, as stated on the platform X.
The U.S. Department of State emphasized the necessity for South Sudan to cease taking advantage of U.S. resources, asserting that every nation must accept its citizens’ return promptly. This stance is underlined by its commitment to enforcing immigration laws for national security and public safety.
The current humanitarian situation in South Sudan, which is on the edge of civil war characterized by rising armed conflict, mass displacements, and severe food shortages, continues to complicate matters. Earlier, on April 22, 2023, the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum ceased all operations, including consular services.
This move parallels actions taken by the former Trump administration, which in February ended deportation protections for many Venezuelans amidst heightened illegal immigration enforcement. Additionally, the Department of Homeland Security indicated plans to revoke Temporary Protected Status for over 300,000 individuals. Since taking office, the Trump administration has reportedly deported more than 100,000 unauthorized migrants.
Responding to these developments, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation for South Sudan, along with the United Nations South Sudan, did not provide immediate comments to Fox News Digital.
The revocation of visas for South Sudanese citizens emphasizes the United States’ commitment to enforcing immigration laws and the need for South Sudan to cooperate in repatriating its citizens. The humanitarian crisis in South Sudan exacerbates this issue, while similar decisions regarding Venezuelans under the Trump administration highlight the broader context of immigration policies. The situation necessitates ongoing monitoring and cooperation between nations.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
