Former Costa Rican president and Nobel Peace Prize recipient Oscar Arias announced the revocation of his US visa, alleging the decision followed his critical remarks about Donald Trump. The 84-year-old, who is celebrated for his efforts in fostering peace in war-torn Central America, indicated that he received a brief email from US officials, providing no rationale for the cancellation.
During a press conference in San José, Arias expressed confusion, stating he had “no idea” why his visa was revoked. He speculated that the decision might be tied to his diplomatic relations with China that he established during his presidency from 2006 to 2010, notably when he severed ties with Taiwan in favor of recognizing Beijing.
Arias pointed out that while he believed the decision didn't originate directly from President Trump, it likely had the backing of the US State Department. Notably, the Trump administration has been vocal about diminishing China's presence in Latin America, criticizing governments that align closely with China.
Furthering his objections to US foreign influence, Arias recounted that during his presidency, Costa Rica never acted like a “banana republic,” alluding to the challenges smaller nations face in opposing US directives. His criticism of Trump, where he likened the president's conduct to that of a “Roman emperor,” illustrates a growing tension between small nations and US foreign policy.
He joins others in Costa Rica, including three members of the national assembly who have had their visas revoked over political disagreements with the current administration led by President Rodrigo Chaves. The political maneuvering regarding Chinese companies' involvement in Costa Rica’s 5G development has further complicated US-Costa Rican relations and may set a precedent for how dissenting political voices are treated internationally.
