Asger Risom
Citing high security risks, the U.S. president enacts full entry bans for select nationalities and restrictions for several more.
In a sweeping move reminiscent of his first term, U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an executive order banning entry into the United States from 12 countries, while imposing partial travel restrictions on another seven. The new policy, justified on national security grounds, marks a significant tightening of immigration and travel into the U.S.
The executive order was signed Wednesday, with Trump asserting that these nations fail to meet U.S. standards for security checks and pose an “unacceptably high risk” to national safety.
While announcing the measure, Trump stated:
We cannot allow open migration from any country where we cannot conduct safe and reliable vetting.
Total ban for 12 nations, partial limits for 7 others
The White House has not yet published the full list of affected countries, but sources close to the administration confirmed that the decision focuses primarily on nations lacking strong identity verification systems or those deemed uncooperative with U.S. intelligence.
According to 20 Minutos, this renewed ban echoes Trump’s earlier travel restrictions during his first presidency, which drew criticism for targeting majority-Muslim countries. This time, the administration claims it has applied more data-driven risk assessments.
While the exact implementation date remains unclear, the administration says the policy will take effect within weeks. Certain exceptions may apply, including for dual citizens, diplomats, and humanitarian emergencies, though these will reportedly be limited.
Political reaction and global response
Critics have condemned the measure as discriminatory and politically motivated, while Trump supporters argue it is a necessary step to protect national borders in an increasingly volatile world.
Immigration advocates warn the order could disrupt families and businesses, as well as undermine the U.S.’s global standing.
This policy shift comes as Trump gears up for further immigration reform measures ahead of the upcoming NATO summit, reinforcing his administration’s core message: American security above all.