Former Panamanian President Martín Erasto Torrijos-Espino announced Monday that the United States has revoked his visa.

Torrijos, 62, served as president of Panama from 2004 to 2009 and remains an influential figure in Panamanian politics.

"On Thursday, June 12, I received an email stating that my U.S. visa had been revoked as of May 21," Torrijos said during a press conference in Panama City.

“I want to warn you that this is not just about me, and not just in my capacity as former president of the republic,” he added. “This is a warning to all Panamanians that criticism of the government’s actions regarding its relations with the United States will not be tolerated.”

Tensions between the U.S. and Panama have been escalating in recent months, particularly after former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed interest in reclaiming control of the Panama Canal.

Adding to the strain, current Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino has faced criticism for reportedly cooperating with the U.S. on controversial policies, including accepting non-Panamanian migrants deported from the U.S. and permitting increased U.S. military presence at three former American bases in Panama.

Torrijos is among several international political figures whose U.S. travel privileges have recently been revoked. In April, Colombian President Gustavo Petro confirmed that his visa had also been canceled by U.S. authorities.

Additionally, former Costa Rican President and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Óscar Arias Sánchez reported that his diplomatic visa to the U.S. had been revoked.

---------------
Have you heard of other international leaders facing U.S. visa revocations? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to news@amcostarica.com