United States uses visa controls as geopolitical tool in Latin America

The United States is increasingly utilizing visa controls as a geopolitical tool to influence decisions and secure cooperation in Latin America. While previous administrations, including those of Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Joe Biden, used visa restrictions to address issues such as corruption and criminal ties, the current Trump administration has integrated these controls into a broader strategy of hemispheric reconfiguration.

A prominent recent example involves Mexico, following the revocation of the visa belonging to Andrés Manuel López Beltrán, son of former President López Obrador. This move has drawn criticism from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, who has characterized the action as interference by Washington. In response, López Beltrán has issued a letter demanding the dismissal of Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Undersecretary Christopher Landau.