Washington, United States – US Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullen defended the decisions of the administration of US President Donald Trump related to denying entry visas to a number of people with the start of the World Cup.
He stressed that these measures were taken in accordance with security and regulatory considerations.
In addition, he explained that the steps were taken in coordination with the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA).
Coordination with FIFA
Mullen explained during a press conference in Washington that the US administration held consultations
with FIFA officials regarding the tournament arrangements and related procedures.
He also pointed out that the decisions to refuse visas do not target the sporting event itself, but rather come within applicable security policies.
The minister refused to go into details of the individual cases included in the ban decisions.
But he merely emphasized that the competent authorities deal with the files according to precise security assessments.
Controversy over entry procedures
These statements come amid growing controversy surrounding entry policies to the United States during the tournament,
with questions arising about the impact of these measures on fans and participating athletes.
Such major events typically involve extensive security coordination between local authorities and organizers.
These efforts aim to ensure the tournament proceeds without security threats or organizational disruptions.
Tight security preparations
The US administration stressed that securing the global sporting event is a priority.
It also indicated that additional measures have been taken to ensure the safety of participants and fans,
within the framework of expanded security plans coinciding with the start of the tournament.
This comes at a time when the United States is preparing to host the World Cup matches amid widespread international interest.
There are also expectations of a large audience from various countries around the world,
making the visa and immigration issue one of the most prominent issues related to the event.
