Trump gives 36 countries 60-day travel restriction ultimatum

On June 14, 2025, a leaked State Department memo revealed plans to add 36 countries to U.S. travel restrictions with a 60-day deadline for new vetting requirements.

The existing travel ban (effective June 9, 2025) fully restricts citizens of 12 countries and partially restricts 7 more, totaling 19 affected nations.

The 36 countries under review include 25 African states (Nigeria, Tanzania, Ghana, South Sudan), Caribbean nations, and Bhutan.

Section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act grants presidents authority to suspend entry of any class of aliens whose entry would be detrimental to U.S. interests.

President Trump cited the June 1, 2025 Boulder, Colorado attack by Egyptian national Mohamed Sabry Soliman as justification for broader restrictions.

Chad's President Idriss Deby ordered suspension of visa issuance to U.S. citizens in retaliation for Chad's inclusion on the restricted list.

The African Union Commission expressed concern that restrictions harm educational exchanges, commercial engagement, and diplomatic relations.

Exemptions include 2026 World Cup players, dual nationals, lawful permanent residents and their immediate families.

Civil rights groups including ACLU and Human Rights Watch criticize the expansion as a rebranded "Muslim ban" and "Africa ban."

The Republic of Congo's spokesperson Thierry Moungalla called his country's inclusion a "misunderstanding," stating Congo is neither a terrorist state nor harbors terrorists.