Africa: Liberia Off the Hook As President Trump Issues Travel Ban for 12 Countries, Partial Restrictions for Seven Including Sierra Leone

Monrovia — Liberia will not be included in a new U.S. travel restriction list. Earlier this year, there were concerns about potential sanctions due to visa and security issues.

Over two months ago, the U.S. government placed Liberia in the "yellow" category. This designation warned Liberia to address specific deficiencies or face penalties. It was unclear if Liberia would act quickly enough to avoid consequences.

This week, President Donald Trump signed an executive order. The order excludes Liberia from countries facing travel bans. It bans nationals from 12 countries, mainly in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

Sierra Leone is among seven countries facing partial restrictions due to high visa overstay rates. Several U.S. visa programs for these countries will be suspended but no outright entry ban is imposed.

Trump stated that the move strengthens national security and counters terrorism. He emphasized his duty to protect U.S. interests and engage with cooperative nations.

Countries Barred from Entering the U.S.:
The 12 countries under full travel bans are:
- Afghanistan
- Myanmar
- Chad
- Republic of Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen

These nations either failed to accept their nationals' return or had high visa overstays. Others like Sudan, Yemen, and Somalia were cited for poor vetting processes.

Countries Facing Partial Restrictions:
Seven countries face partial restrictions affecting certain visa categories:
- Burundi
- Cuba
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela

These countries will see suspensions in some visa programs, but exemptions apply. Lawful permanent residents of the U.S., Afghan Special Immigrant Visa holders, diplomats, and immediate family members applying for immigrant visas are exempted.

Exceptions also exist for ethnic and religious minorities in Iran and dual nationals traveling on unrestricted passports. Athletes participating in the Olympics or World Cup are also exempted.

The travel restrictions will take effect at 12:01 a.m. ET on Monday.

Criticism and Geopolitical Impact:
Critics argue that this travel ban could strain diplomatic relationships further. The Trump administration faces backlash over trade tariffs, reduced humanitarian aid, and pressure on nations regarding deported migrants.

In a video shared by the White House, Trump called these restrictions essential for preventing foreign terror attacks on American soil. He referenced recent violence in Boulder, Colorado as part of his justification for renewed immigration control measures.