Trump signs proclamation banning citizens from 12 countries

Part of broader immigration crackdown

The directive is part of Trump’s broader immigration agenda in his second term, which includes mass deportations, restrictions on student visas, and removal of suspected gang members—especially Venezuelans—back to their home country.

Countries affected by the travel ban

The ban fully restricts entry from the following 12 countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.

In addition, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela face partial travel restrictions.

Trump: Security first

In a video posted on X, Trump said: “We will not allow people to enter our country who wish to do us harm.”

He noted that the list could be revised and that new countries might be added.

The order goes into effect on June 9, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. EDT. Visas issued before that date will remain valid.

African Union expresses concern

The African Union Commission raised concerns about the impact of the travel ban on diplomacy, trade, and educational exchanges.

In a statement, it called on the US to engage in “constructive dialogue” with the affected nations and adopt a more consultative approach.

Background: Trump’s previous travel bans

During his first term (2017–2021), Trump imposed a travel ban on seven Muslim-majority countries—a policy that faced legal battles but was eventually upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.

His successor, Joe Biden, repealed the ban in 2021, calling it “a stain on our national conscience.”

Reasons cited for ban

Trump said the most heavily restricted countries harbor a strong terrorist presence, lack proper identity verification systems, and have poor visa record-keeping and high overstay rates.

“We cannot have open migration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably vet and screen those who seek to enter,” he said.

He referenced a recent incident in Colorado involving a gasoline bomb attack by an Egyptian national with an expired visa, although Egypt is not on the current ban list.

Mixed international reactions

Somalia pledged to work with the U.S. to address concerns, reaffirming its strong ties with Washington.

In contrast, Venezuelan Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello criticized the ban, calling the US government fascist and warning Venezuelans of the risks of staying in the U.S.

Other countries, including Afghanistan and Myanmar, did not immediately respond to the policy.

Personal Impact: Programmes and dreams disrupted

The ban has already begun to affect individuals. A 31-year-old teacher from Myanmar, accepted into a U.S. exchange programme, said her plans are now uncertain.

“It is not easy to apply nor get accepted,” she said, expressing frustration at the lack of updates after the ban announcement.

Policy roots and political strategy

Trump previewed this expanded travel ban during a 2023 campaign speech, targeting several regions including Gaza, Libya, and Somalia.

He also signed an executive order in January requiring stricter vetting for all foreign nationals entering the US

Initial report and media coverage

The new travel restrictions were first reported by CBS News, while Reuters had earlier indicated that such measures were under consideration for dozens of countries.