(NewsNation) — The U.S. government has reportedly revoked the visas of more than 50 Mexican officials as the Trump administration continues its crackdown on drug cartels and their suspected political allies.
The move shocked Mexico’s political elite, who regularly travel to the U.S. and require a visa to do so. A Reuters investigation shows that the visa cancellations are far more extensive than previously understood.
Three former U.S. ambassadors told the publication previous administrations have revoked visas in this way, but not to the same degree, which they said shows President Donald Trump’s willingness to use the diplomatic tool to achieve policy goals.
Only four officials have publicly come out to confirm that they lost their visas, including Baja California state Gov. Marina del Pilar Avila, who lost hers in May. She has denied all links to organized crime.
A senior U.S. State Department official issued a statement to Reuters, saying: “Visas, including those held by foreign officials, may be revoked at any time” for “activities that run contrary to America’s national interest.” The official added those activities include drug trafficking, visa overstay, corruption, spying, or aiding illegal immigration.