WASHINGTON, April 6: In a major diplomatic move, the United States has revoked all visas held by South Sudanese passport holders, citing the country's failure to cooperate with the repatriation of its nationals.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the decision on Friday, stating that South Sudan’s refusal to accept the return of its citizens has forced Washington to take firm action. The measure includes a suspension of all new visa issuances for South Sudanese nationals.

“This step underscores our commitment to ensuring countries take responsibility for their citizens,” Rubio said in a statement. “We will reassess this policy when the Government of South Sudan complies with international norms and facilitates the return of its nationals.”

The move comes amid rising tensions in South Sudan, where political unrest has surged following the detention of First Vice President Riek Machar. Clashes between government forces and armed opposition groups have raised fears of renewed conflict in the fragile nation.

It remains unclear how many South Sudanese nationals currently in the U.S. will be directly affected by the visa cancellations.

The U.S. has long urged countries to assist in the return of their citizens who are subject to deportation. South Sudan now joins a small list of nations facing visa sanctions for non-cooperation.