US Revokes Visas for South Sudanese Amid Deportation Tensions

The US has canceled visas for all South Sudanese passport holders following the country's refusal to accept deported citizens, reflecting ongoing tensions in US-South Sudan relations amid fears of renewed conflict in the African nation.

In a significant diplomatic move, the United States has announced the immediate revocation of visas for all South Sudanese passport holders. This decision was announced by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio following South Sudan's refusal to repatriate its citizens who have been removed from US soil. Rubio emphasized that any incoming citizens from South Sudan would also be blocked at US ports of entry.

Rubio condemned the South Sudanese transitional government's failure to promptly accept its repatriated nationals, arguing, "It is time for the Transitional Government of South Sudan to stop taking advantage of the United States." His statement aligns with President Donald Trump’s broader immigration strategy focused on the swift deportation of undocumented migrants.

This visa cancellation comes amidst increasing apprehension about South Sudan's stability, with concerns that the country may further regress into civil war. On March 8, the US ordered the evacuation of its non-emergency personnel from South Sudan due to escalating regional conflicts that threaten the fragile peace established in 2018.

Previously, South Sudanese residing in the US were protected under Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which was set to expire on May 3. South Sudan declared independence from Sudan in 2011 but has since faced internal conflict, with the civil war erupting just two years later due to political strife between President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar. Although a power-sharing deal in 2018 aimed to quell violence, key aspects remain unfulfilled, and ethnic clashes persist.

The Trump administration's approach to deportations has drawn tensions with various nations. For instance, Colombian President Gustavo Petro had previously barred US military flights carrying deported nationals until facing threats of significant tariffs and sanctions. As the situation evolves, the implications for US-South Sudan relations and regional security remain uncertain.