Trump Administration Threatens Travel Ban on 36 Countries, Most in Africa

The Trump administration has delivered an essential ultimatum to 36 nations—25 of which are located in Africa—insisting they improve travel documentation and repatriation cooperation or face the possibility of being included on the U.S. travel ban list.

A diplomatic cable sent over the weekend and acquired by the Associated Press reveals that U.S. embassies and consulates have been instructed to inform host countries of their obligation to enhance vetting procedures and tackle the situation of their nationals living illegally in the U.S. by Wednesday. Should decisive measures not be implemented within the next 60 days, these nations may face limitations similar to those currently affecting 12 countries.

Countries affected include key U.S. allies, such as Egypt, Ethiopia, Liberia, and Nigeria, as well as nations like Syria, Cambodia, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The administration states that these nations either do not have adequate screening processes in place or have a history of declining to accept their deported nationals.

“We’re considering allowing a timeframe... for nations to persuade us of the reliability of their procedures and the data they present,” stated State Department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce, while not disclosing the exact particulars of the cable.

A recent announcement by President Trump has led to an expansion of the travel ban, now affecting 12 countries, such as Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen. New visa restrictions have been enacted for seven additional countries, including Venezuela, Cuba, and Laos.

A fresh compilation of 36 nations has emerged, featuring a mix of African and non-African countries, ranging from Bhutan and Kyrgyzstan to Vanuatu and Tonga, all of which face the challenge of revamping their traveler vetting processes.

Some analysts argue that the initiative may harm international relations and have a more significant impact on countries in Africa. 

Specific resettlement organizations caution that it may encourage xenophobia, whereas authorities maintain that it is an essential measure for safeguarding national security and upholding immigration regulations.