US Visa Revocation

In a bold move, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the immediate revocation of visas for all South Sudanese passport holders. This action comes as a direct response to South Sudan's refusal to accept the return of its citizens who have been expelled from the United States.

Rubio's Statement

In a statement on Saturday, Rubio highlighted the US's frustration with the South Sudanese Transitional Government, stating that they have failed to timely accept the repatriation of their nationals. As an additional measure, the US will block any South Sudanese citizens from entering the country at its ports of entry.

"This is not just a bureaucratic issue; every nation has a duty to welcome back its citizens when they are legally deported," Rubio emphasized. He added, "It is time for the Transitional Government of South Sudan to stop taking advantage of the United States."

Concerns of Civil War

This announcement is particularly concerning given the escalating fears that South Sudan may be on the brink of another civil war. The US has already taken precautions, ordering all non-emergency personnel to evacuate from South Sudan on March 8, as regional conflicts jeopardize the fragile peace established by a 2018 agreement.

Context of Ongoing Violence

South Sudan, which has been embroiled in conflict since its independence in 2011, has seen over 400,000 deaths due to civil strife following a political fallout between President Salva Kiir and Vice-President Riek Machar. While the 2018 power-sharing agreement temporarily quelled hostilities, key components—such as a new constitution, elections, and the unification of armed factions—remain unfulfilled. Violent skirmishes continue to erupt among various ethnic and local groups.

Impact on South Sudanese in the US

For many South Sudanese living in the US, their status has been precarious. Previously, they were granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS), which allowed them to remain in the country legally. However, this status is set to expire on May 3, further complicating matters for thousands of individuals who may now face deportation to a nation already on the brink of chaos.

Diplomatic Tensions

In the larger context of international relations, this is not the first instance of the US government encountering pushback from foreign nations over deportations. Earlier this year, Colombian President Gustavo Petro controversially barred US military flights carrying deported citizens from landing in Colombia, only relenting after threats of sanctions from the Trump administration.

Conclusion

As tensions rise between the US and South Sudan, the world watches closely. Will this latest diplomatic spat lead to a resurgence of violence in South Sudan, or can international efforts help stabilize the region? Only time will tell, but the consequences of these actions could be profound. Stay tuned as this story develops.