Announcement of Targeted Visa Restrictions for Individuals Involved in Undermining Peace in South Sudan

The transitional government of South Sudan has, for years, impeded implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS), signed during President Trump’s first term, leaving the country on the brink of a return to all-out war. Numerous well-respected investigative bodies have documented how corrupt officials and entities, including Crawford Capital, Ltd., have siphoned money from South Sudan’s treasury and stolen foreign assistance funds intended to support the South Sudanese people. The South Sudan People’s Defense Forces (SSPDF), controlled by President Salva Kiir, has conducted a military offensive in northern Jonglei State that has displaced 300,000 people and created the conditions for a potential famine in large parts of South Sudan. There have also been credible reports of human rights violations and abuses and ethnically motivated killings of the Nuer people.

Today, pursuant to authority under Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, Secretary Rubio is taking steps to impose visa restrictions on members of South Sudan’s transitional government. These individuals have undermined peace in South Sudan, including by impeding the ceasefire agreement and engaging in corruption that has fueled the conflict.

The United States will continue to stand with the South Sudanese people, who want to live in peace and dignity. We will continue to use all tools available to expose and promote accountability for members of the transitional government, SSPDF officials, and other individuals who steal from the South Sudanese people and threaten peace.