Overview

• Óscar Arias, former Costa Rican president and Nobel Peace Prize winner, confirmed his U.S. visa was revoked without explanation earlier this week.
• Arias had recently criticized U.S. President Donald Trump, comparing him to a 'Roman emperor' and accusing him of pressuring smaller nations like Costa Rica.
• The visa cancellation follows a U.S. policy directive enabling visa denials for individuals deemed to have 'hostile attitudes' toward the United States.
• Arias has also been critical of Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves, accusing him of yielding to U.S. demands on policies involving China and deported migrants.
• Despite the visa revocation, Arias remains defiant, asserting that attempts to silence his criticism will not succeed.