President Donald Trump’s administration is reportedly preparing to extend travel restrictions and strict border control measures this week.
CNN reports the latest restrictions indicate that while the USA moves toward reopening, the federal government is not ready to ease measures that were put in place that mainly sealed off the country to curb the spread of COVID-19.
The restrictions currently in place, expire on 21 May.
“We will likely look at expanding those restrictions, as the country continues to be a phased opening approach, state-by-state, governor-by-governor, so we’re taking a look at that as well,” acting Homeland Security Secretary Chad Wolf told reporters last week.
CNN reports Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also suggested last week that the US-Canada border would likely remain closed through June.
A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson told the news channel that “the United States has great appreciation for the efforts of our partners in Canada and Mexico to ensure that North America is working together to combat the pandemic caused by the novel coronavirus.
“Although a formal decision has not yet been made, the United States will continue to maintain the current restrictions on travellers crossing our land borders for non-essential purposes for as long as is necessary, while supporting cross-border activities that protect our economy, health and supply security, and critical industries.”
According to the World Health Organisation’s latest statistics, the USA has had more than 1,5 million confirmed COVID-19 cases, with more than 90,000 deaths reported.
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