The US Department of State has revoked visas held by South Sudanese passport holders as part of a broader effort to enforce immigration rules and hold nations accountable for their actions. This decision comes amidst a power struggle between President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar, which has led to weeks of fighting in northern Upper Nile state.
The US action is linked to South Sudan's refusal to accept the return of its citizens, including those repatriated from the US. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that countries failing to cooperate with international efforts face consequences such as visa sanctions or tariffs.
This move has significant implications for South Sudanese citizens living in the US, who are now facing uncertainty about their future. The decision has also put a strain on African Union mediators' efforts to broker talks aimed at averting a new civil war in South Sudan.