The U.S. implements new immigration restrictions for citizens of 19 countries from Monday

U.S., Jun 10th. - This Monday the new entry restrictions to the United States announced by President Donald Trump came into effect. The measure, published last Wednesday through a presidential proclamation, represents a significant tightening of the U.S. country's immigration policies.

The provision completely prohibits the entry of citizens of twelve nations: Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. It also provides additional constraints for visitors from seven other countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

However, the regulations include important exceptions for legal permanent residents, existing visa holders, certain categories of visas and those whose entry is considered to benefit the U.S. national interests.

Trump defended the measure on national security grounds, specifically mentioning an attack in Boulder, Colorado, whose author had a expired tourist visa. The president warned that both lists could be modified as threats arise around the world.

The decision has generated strong international criticism. Cuba, Venezuela and Iran have strongly condemned the measure, calling it a racist background. Tehran promised to take all necessary measures to protect its citizens, while Chad responded by suspending the issuance of visas for U.S. citizens. (Text and Photo: Cubadebate)