A draft list from the US State Department identifies 43 countries that may face immigration restrictions under President Trump. Nations are categorized into three lists: red (total ban), orange (restricted visas), and yellow (60 days to address concerns). Surprising inclusions include Bhutan and Afghanistan, while notable omissions raise questions about the geopolitical landscape.
According to a report by The New York Times, a draft list from the US State Department may reveal that 43 countries could be subject to President Donald Trump’s immigration restrictions. The countries are categorized into three color-coded lists: red for a total ban, orange for sharply restricted visas, and yellow for countries given 60 days to address concerns raised by the United States.
The red list includes several anticipated nations such as North Korea, Iran, Yemen, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Libya, and notably Afghanistan, which is a recent addition. Surprisingly, Bhutan, renowned for its peaceful Buddhist culture, is included due to an immigration scam linked to Bhutanese refugees. Interestingly, Iraq does not feature on this list despite current geopolitical tensions.
Countries in Central America and South America, including Cuba and Venezuela, are also present on the red list. Conversely, Pakistan appears on the orange list, marking a significant development for its diaspora residing in the United States. Additionally, Russia and its ally Belarus are included, whereas Ukraine is noticeably absent despite political relations.
The orange category encompasses countries such as Laos and Myanmar, along with Turkmenistan from Central Asia. In the yellow list, some Caribbean nations such as St. Lucia and Antigua have raised eyebrows by their inclusion, as well as Cambodia and Vanuatu, the latter being linked to controversial immigration pursuits by Indian businessman Lalit Modi. Sixteen African nations, including Zimbabwe, Chad, and Eritrea, are also marked yellow, reflecting a diverse list of countries amid global immigration discussions.
The draft list circulating within the US State Department highlights complex geopolitical dynamics and immigration strategies under President Trump’s administration, categorizing 43 nations based on varying restrictions. The distinctive inclusion of Bhutan, alongside nations typically noted for their controversies, emphasizes the unpredictable nature of these regulations. Ultimately, the implications of these lists will resonate across borders, affecting diplomatic relations and the lives of thousands globally.
Original Source: www.rediff.com
