U.S. Revokes Visas for South Sudanese Amid Rising Civil War Threats and Diplomatic Tensions
April 6, 2025
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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Sources

The New York Times • Apr 5, 2025
Trump Administration Revokes Visas of South Sudanese in Clash Over Deportees
The Guardian • Apr 6, 2025
US revokes all visas for South Sudanese over country’s failure to repatriate citizens
BBC News • Apr 6, 2025
US cancels visas for South Sudanese over deportation dispute
Time • Apr 6, 2025
The U.S. Has Revoked Visas for South Sudanese