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US Urges Europe to Impose Ebola Travel Restrictions Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026

US Urges Europe to Impose Ebola Travel Restrictions Ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026. Source: U.S. Department of State, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Trump administration is urging European nations to adopt travel restrictions similar to those implemented by the United States in response to the ongoing Ebola outbreak in parts of Central Africa. The move is aimed at preventing the spread of the virus ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

According to sources familiar with the matter, Washington issued a formal diplomatic communication, known as a demarche, on June 1 requesting that European governments introduce travel measures targeting individuals who have recently visited Ebola-affected countries. A European Union diplomat based in Africa said member states have not yet responded to the request.

Last month, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announced restrictions preventing non-U.S. citizens who had been in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, or South Sudan within the previous 21 days from entering the country. American citizens returning from those nations are required to enter through designated airports for health screenings.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emphasized that preventing Ebola from reaching the United States remains a top priority. The administration has focused on limiting the arrival of potentially exposed travelers, despite the country’s ability to safely treat and contain Ebola cases.

A State Department official said the travel measures, combined with significant U.S. funding commitments, demonstrate Washington’s leadership in addressing the outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the situation as an international public health emergency.

The official also called on governments worldwide to strengthen their Ebola response efforts through financial support and practical travel precautions. U.S. officials have reportedly been coordinating with international partners to protect citizens and the millions of athletes, fans, and tourists expected to attend FIFA World Cup events.

The Ebola outbreak has already affected some international travel plans linked to the tournament. Meanwhile, the Trump administration says it has delivered approximately 150 tons of medical supplies and pledged more than $200 million in aid to affected countries, making the United States the largest contributor to the global Ebola response effort.

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