The United States has introduced a new visa restriction policy to fight the growing problem of fentanyl and illegal drug trafficking. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the announcement, stressing that the country’s overdose crisis has become deadly, especially among Americans aged 18 to 44.
According to him, the new measure targets relatives and close contacts of individuals already sanctioned under Executive Order 14059. These people will now face visa restrictions as part of broader efforts to disrupt the global drug trade and reduce fentanyl-related deaths.
Rubio explained that the policy strengthens existing sanctions and immigration rules tied to drug trafficking offenses. He pointed out that more than 220 Americans died from overdoses each day in 2024, and over 40 percent of the population knows someone who has died from an overdose.
The move is meant to block access to the US for individuals involved in the supply chain of illegal drugs. By restricting their ability to travel, the US hopes to discourage others from participating in drug-related crimes. Rubio emphasized that the government will continue to use every available tool to protect American lives from the dangers of synthetic opioids like fentanyl.
