The Trump administration is preparing to impose new tough restrictions on entry into the United States for citizens of certain countries. According to The New York Times, the new initiative will be much broader than the previous ban that was in place during Trump’s first presidential term.
Which countries will be under the ban?
Sources in the administration report that a so-called “red” list of states is being considered, whose citizens may be completely banned from entering the U.S. It may include the same countries that were previously subject to restrictions, including:
- Cuba
- Iran
- Libya
- North Korea
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Syria
- Venezuela
- Yemen
There is also consideration to add Afghanistan to the list, which could have serious consequences for thousands of Afghan citizens who previously collaborated with American military forces.
Why is this dangerous for U.S. allies?
One of the main problems with the new ban is that it will affect even those who assisted the U.S. in military conflicts. For example, thousands of Afghans who worked with American military personnel during the war may be left without the ability to migrate to the United States.
Shawn Vandiver, head of the “AfghanistanEvac” organization, stated that many American veterans who supported Trump are now feeling outraged by the possible ban. “This is not what they voted for,” he said.
Additional Restrictions for Other Countries
In addition to the “red” category, the U.S. administration is considering two other groups of countries:
- “Orange” category – limited access. Citizens of these countries will only be able to obtain visas for business trips, not for immigration or tourism.
- “Yellow” category – 60 days to address deficiencies. If a country does not improve passport security checks and information exchange with the U.S., it may be moved to the “red” or “orange” category.
What will happen to those who already have visas?
At this time, it is unclear whether visas for citizens of countries facing a ban will remain valid. There is a risk that they may be revoked. The status of green card holders, who have permission for permanent residency in the U.S., is also uncertain.
According to experts, around 200,000 Afghans already have permission to enter the U.S., and another 51,000 individuals are outside of Afghanistan awaiting resettlement. If Trump’s decision takes effect, many of them will lose the chance for a secure future.
Political consequences and societal reaction
The new restrictions may trigger international criticism and escalate tensions in U.S. relations with countries subject to sanctions. Additionally, this will be another step in Trump’s tightening immigration policy, which has already sparked heated debates in American society.
It is expected that within the next two weeks, the U.S. State Department will present an official list of countries subject to the new restrictions. Whether this policy will become part of Trump’s reelection campaign remains to be seen.
