The African Union (AU) has expressed deep concern over U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order, which bans entry to the United States for nationals from 12 countries, including seven African nations.

The ban, issued on January 20, 2025, affects Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Additionally, Cuba, Venezuela, Burundi, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Turkmenistan face partial restrictions.

In a statement released Thursday, the AU warned that the travel ban could harm diplomatic ties, educational exchanges, and commercial engagement between Africa and the U.S..

“The AU remains concerned about the potential negative impact of such measures on people-to-people ties, educational exchange, commercial engagement, and broader diplomatic relations that have been carefully nurtured over decades,” the statement read.

The AU urged the U.S. administration to adopt a more consultative approach, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy and mutual respect in international relations.

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