Trump's Travel Ban on 12 Nations Set to Take Effect Monday

In a move reminiscent of his first-term policies, U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an order barring citizens from 12 countries from entering the United States. The ban, which takes effect at 12:01 a.m. ET on Monday, includes Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Additionally, visitors from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela will face heightened restrictions.

Trump has justified the ban by citing concerns over terrorism, visa security, and high rates of visa overstays. He also referenced a recent attack in Boulder, Colorado, involving an Egyptian national, though Egypt is not included in the ban. The policy has sparked criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who argue that it is draconian and unconstitutional.

Some affected nations have already responded. Chad's President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno announced that his government would stop granting visas to U.S. citizens in retaliation. Meanwhile, Afghans who worked with U.S.-funded projects fear the ban will prevent them from resettling in the U.S., leaving them vulnerable to Taliban reprisals.

The ban is expected to have significant diplomatic and humanitarian implications, as critics warn it could further strain international relations and disrupt lives. As the policy goes into effect, reactions from global leaders and affected communities will likely shape the ongoing debate over immigration and national security.