The U.S. government has canceled the visas of six foreign nationals after officials determined their social media posts mocked or celebrated the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. The move followed a review by the State Department, which said such behavior violated the hospitality extended to visitors and may lead to exclusion.
The visa cancellations came as President Donald Trump posthumously awarded Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom and called him a “martyr” and “great American hero.” The revoked visas belonged to individuals from Argentina, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, Paraguay, and South Africa—but their identities were not disclosed.
According to the State Department, this action forms part of a broader effort to hold foreign nationals accountable for using online platforms to praise the killing of an American citizen. Officials have also increased scrutiny of visa applicants’ social media activities, especially for content deemed hostile or violent.
Trump and other top officials have defended the decision, arguing the U.S. has no obligation to host those who “celebrate” the death of Americans. Critics—including civil liberties organizations—warn that revoking visas over speech raises serious concerns about free expression and due process.
In recent months, the administration has also denied or canceled visas of individuals linked to political protests or controversial social media commentary. Those actions have sparked debate over the balance between national security and fundamental speech rights.
