In a decisive move to uphold U.S. national security interests, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has authorized visa restrictions on Colombian government officials and their immediate family members. This action follows the recent interference by Colombian authorities in U.S. repatriation flight operations.
The U.S. government has expressed frustration with Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s decision to revoke authorization for two repatriation flights after initially approving them. Secretary Rubio, in response to this disruption, has ordered a suspension of visa issuance at the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá’s consular section. The suspension will remain in effect until Colombia fulfills its international obligations by accepting the return of its citizens currently residing illegally in the United States.
Under the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) 212(a)(3)(C), Secretary Rubio has invoked the authority to impose travel sanctions on Colombian officials and their immediate family members who were directly responsible for obstructing U.S. repatriation efforts. These measures are designed to signal that the U.S. will not tolerate actions that undermine its immigration enforcement or national security.
The Secretary’s statement emphasized that the U.S. remains committed to its “America First” agenda, and will take necessary actions to defend the nation’s interests. The visa restrictions are part of a broader strategy to hold foreign governments accountable for their role in facilitating illegal immigration and to ensure that the U.S. immigration system is not undermined by external interference.
The U.S. Department of State has made it clear that these restrictions will remain in place until Colombia meets its obligations, reinforcing the administration’s stance on securing the U.S. border and holding countries accountable for their citizens’ unlawful presence in the United States.