U.S. Cuts Off Visas for South Sudanese Citizens Over Deportation Dispute

The U.S. is cutting off visas for South Sudanese citizens, blaming the country for refusing to take back its deported nationals.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the new restrictions on Friday. All existing visas for people holding South Sudanese passports are being revoked, and no new visas will be issued until further notice.

“South Sudan’s government has taken advantage of us long enough,” Rubio said in a statement. “If a country doesn’t take back its own people when we deport them, there are consequences.”

Rubio said the visa ban would stay in place until South Sudan cooperates.

It’s unclear how many people will be affected, but the decision could hit students, workers, and families with ties to the U.S.

Tensions between Washington and Juba have been growing. Since becoming independent in 2011, South Sudan has struggled with unrest and weak leadership. The current transitional government was established after a fragile peace deal, but it has faced criticism for stalling reforms.

So far, South Sudan’s officials haven’t responded to the visa ban.