President Donald Trump announced a travel ban on nationals from a dozen countries and the cancellation of visa programs for seven others.
For many, this move seemed reminiscent of 2017, when one of the most controversial policies of Trump's first term was introduced. Trump cited national security and terrorism concerns as the motivating factors behind the ban, which primarily affects nationals from Africa and Asia. This decision triggered a range of reactions from representatives of those countries, ranging from weariness in diplomacy to outright anger.
Chad, a country in Central Africa that is among those affected by the travel ban, quickly issued a reciprocal restriction on issuing visas to US citizens. The President of Chad remarked that while Chad may not have planes or billions of dollars to offer, what they do have is dignity and pride.
Regarding countries like Egypt, with which the US has a close relationship, Trump stated that they have things under control, unlike the countries affected by the bans. He expressed urgency in keeping harmful individuals out of the United States, stating, "Frankly, we want to keep bad people out of our country. The Biden administration allowed some horrendous individuals in, and we're getting them out one by one. We have thousands of murderers."
He acknowledged the challenges faced in other countries, saying, "I hate to say this in front of the Chancellor, but you have a little problem too with some of the individuals that were allowed in. It's not your fault; it shouldn't have happened, and I told her that." He reassured that they are taking action and "moving them out very strongly."
