The Trump administration is weighing the possibility of enforcing entry restrictions on individuals from 43 nations, including Cuba. These countries are categorized into three groups: "red," "orange," and "yellow." According to a report by The New York Times, the list is still in draft form and could be modified before receiving White House approval.
Diplomatic and security officials, speaking anonymously, shared that the "red list" comprises 11 nations facing a complete entry ban to the United States: Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen. The "orange list," where visa restrictions would be significantly tightened, includes Belarus, Eritrea, Haiti, Laos, Myanmar, Pakistan, Russia, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, and Turkmenistan.
Details about the "yellow list" are not specified in the leaked document, but it is anticipated that these countries will face less stringent restrictions. The proposal, crafted by the Department of State, is still under review, and adjustments may be made before it is implemented.
This plan aligns with the restrictive immigration policies from Trump's first term, and if enacted, could provoke international reactions. This week, a report from El Nuevo Herald noted that the plan was devised by Stephen Miller, a former advisor to Trump and the architect of some of his most stringent immigration policies. The plan does not provide exceptions for elderly, sick, or politically persecuted individuals, such as the recent cases of Damir Ortiz, a child, and Martha Beatriz Roque, a dissident, who traveled to the U.S. for medical treatment.
The measure falls under an executive order directing the State Department to partially or entirely suspend entry of citizens from countries deemed lacking in "investigation and selection" for immigration. Although previous versions of this policy under Trump included a waiver mechanism, it might be completely removed in this instance.
For example, the cases of Damir Ortiz, a 10-year-old Cuban with leukemia, and dissident Martha Beatriz Roque, who were relocated to Miami for treatment, highlight how the ban could endanger lives. Additionally, Florida's Republican Congress members, Mario Díaz-Balart, María Elvira Salazar, and Carlos Giménez, may face pressure from their constituents since the Cuban and Venezuelan communities in South Florida would be severely impacted.
Despite Florida being a Republican stronghold, analysts suggest this policy might influence the upcoming midterm elections. Legal experts and former prosecutors warn that the plan could face legal challenges, especially due to the absence of exemptions. David Weinstein, a former state and federal prosecutor in Miami-Dade, indicated that Cubans and Venezuelans might argue the ban unfairly impacts their families and violates fundamental rights.
Impact of U.S. Travel Restrictions on Foreign Nationals
Which countries are included in the "red list" for U.S. travel restrictions?
The "red list" includes Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen, with a complete entry ban proposed.
What are the implications for Florida's political landscape regarding these restrictions?
The restrictions could affect Cuban and Venezuelan communities in South Florida, potentially influencing the midterm elections and pressuring local Republican congress members.
Could this plan face legal challenges?
Yes, legal experts suggest that the absence of exemptions could lead to judicial challenges, arguing the ban unjustly impacts families and violates fundamental rights.