Trump slams door on visas for 75 countries including Russia


The Trump administration on Wednesday is freezing immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, including Russia and Iran as the president threatens military strikes against the ayatollah.

The State Department released an internal memo directing consular officers to deny visas while the department reexamines procedures for screening and vetting applicants.

Some of the countries included in the visa freeze are Iraq, Nigeria, Brazil, Afghanistan, Somalia, Thailand, Yemen, and Pakistan.

The pause comes after Trump is deliberating options to strike Iran following nationwide protests against the Islamic regime.

The State Department is expected to implement the indefinite freeze on January 21.

The memo also directs consular officer to deny visas applicants who will need to reply on public benefits upon entry to the US.

Officers are also instructed to weigh a variety of factors for applicants, including health, age, and English proficiency.

‘The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people,’ State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott said.

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-15463783/US-freezes-visas-75-countries-including-Russia-Iran-war-drums-intensify.html