US State Department to tighten visa policy against Christians persecutors

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Photo: aa.com.

On December 3, 2025, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the introduction of new visa restrictions against individuals and entities involved in the persecution of Christians and the violation of religious freedoms. Rubio announced this in his official account on X (Twitter).

According to the head of the State Department, the U.S. is strengthening measures in response to the increase in violence and discrimination against Christian communities, especially in Nigeria, where mass killings, attacks on churches, and abductions of believers have been recorded in recent years.

«The United States is taking decisive action in response to the atrocities and violence against Christians in Nigeria and around the world. The @StateDept will restrict U.S. visas for those who knowingly direct, authorize, fund, support, or carry out violations of religious freedom. This visa policy applies to Nigeria and other governments or individuals that persecute people for their religious beliefs," emphasized Rubio.

In Washington, it is noted that the restrictions will apply to both government structures and private individuals if they are involved in religiously motivated repressions. Visa bans may also be extended to their family members.

The American administration states that it intends to strengthen international pressure on governments and groups that systematically persecute Christian minorities and to ensure the observance of fundamental rights to freedom of religion.

Earlier, the UOJ wrote that an American congressman opposed Wilson's accusations against the UOC and stated that such statements should not be used against believers.

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