U.S. Revokes Visas for South Sudanese Amid Rising Civil War Threats and Diplomatic Tensions

April 6, 2025
U.S. Revokes Visas for South Sudanese Amid Rising Civil War Threats and Diplomatic Tensions
  • In response to the instability, Western nations have reduced their diplomatic presence in South Sudan, reflecting growing concerns over security and stability.

  • The U.S. embassy in Juba is also scaling back its diplomatic operations and advising American citizens in the region to prepare emergency plans.

  • The U.S. has implemented aggressive immigration enforcement measures, including sanctions against countries that do not cooperate with repatriation requests.

  • The U.S. has revoked all visas for South Sudanese citizens, citing the government's failure to accept the timely return of its nationals amid escalating threats of civil war.

  • This decision comes in the wake of significant political turmoil in South Sudan, particularly following the arrest of First Vice President Riek Machar, which has heightened tensions in the country.

  • Currently, approximately 133 South Sudanese nationals are living in the U.S. under Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which is set to expire on May 3, 2025.

  • This visa cancellation aligns with the Trump administration's aggressive immigration enforcement policies, which focus on the removal of individuals deemed to be in the country illegally.

  • The U.S. government's decision to single out South Sudanese nationals coincides with an increase in African migrants attempting to enter the U.S. through its southern border.

  • South Sudan, despite its significant oil reserves, remains one of the poorest countries globally, struggling with widespread displacement and inadequate health and education systems.

  • The country's economy is heavily reliant on oil, but corruption and conflict have hindered the benefits from reaching the population, resulting in delayed salaries for civil servants.

  • A fragile peace deal established in 2018 has not been fully implemented, with ongoing violence and no presidential elections held, leaving President Kiir in power amid rising tensions.

  • In light of the escalating situation, African Union mediators have been sent to Juba to discuss measures aimed at preventing a potential new civil war.

Summary based on 28 sources


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