REPORTS CLAIM U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE HAS ANNOUNCED PLANS TO RESCIND THE DIPLOMATIC VISAS, AND ALL TRAVEL PRIVILEGES, FOR 26 SENIOR CARIBBEAN GOVERNMENT LEADERS.

Antigua PM GASTON BROWNE

This information, which came after details appeared recently claiming that Antigua and Barbuda's Prime Minister GASTON BROWNE has had all his visa privileges to enter the United States revoked, was seen multiple times on social media. The grounds were said to be that the individuals named threatened the security and prosperity of the United States. Reuters has confirmed this story.

In what must be considered an extension of the current American visa restriction policy, a denial of the ability of those named to "own or control critical assets" was mentioned. Whether this means that sanctions will be imposed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC), or some other American regulatory or law enforcement action, we cannot say.

The report included specific information regarding individuals who hold office in Antigua; it stated that a half dozen Antiguan officials, as well as a senior local businessman are included on the list of names of those whose visas will be terminated. We shall make every effort to verify the names, but wish to point out that the United States, as a matter of policy does not confirm single cases where it has revoked visa privileges of foreign leaders.