Former Argentine President banned from entering the U.S. due to massive corruption charges. The Trump Administration took decisive action to hold the socialist leader accountable after multiple convictions in her home country.
At a glance:
- The United States has imposed a travel ban on Argentina’s former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner due to “significant corruption” allegations
- The ban also applies to former Planning Minister Julio Miguel De Vido and their families
- Both are accused of orchestrating bribery schemes involving public works contracts that stole millions from Argentine taxpayers
- Fernandez de Kirchner was convicted in 2022 and sentenced to six years in prison with a ban on holding public office
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the U.S. commitment to holding corrupt officials accountable, even at the highest levels of government
America Takes Stand Against Socialist Corruption
The United States government has slammed the door on former Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, implementing a travel ban over what officials describe as “significant corruption” during her time in office. This latest action sends another clear message that America won’t tolerate corruption from foreign leaders, even those who once held their nation’s highest office.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the ban, which also extends to former Planning Minister Julio Miguel De Vido and their immediate family members. Both socialist politicians were key figures in Argentina’s government during a period marked by economic decline and growing allegations of widespread corruption.
Stealing Millions From Argentine Taxpayers
Rubio didn’t mince words when explaining the reason for the ban. “Fernandez and De Vido abused their positions by orchestrating and financially benefiting from multiple bribery schemes involving public works contracts, resulting in millions of dollars stolen from the Argentine government,” he stated.
The scandal involved awarding over $1 billion in public contracts without proper bidding processes. Multiple Argentine courts have already convicted both Fernandez de Kirchner and De Vido on serious corruption charges, with the former president sentenced to six years in prison in 2022.
“The United States will continue to promote accountability for those who abuse public power for personal gain. These designations reaffirm our commitment to counter global corruption, including at the highest levels of government,” Rubio declared.
Kirchner Blames Current Administration
Fernandez de Kirchner served as Argentina’s President from 2007 to 2015 and later became Vice President under Alberto Fernandez until 2023. Despite her legal troubles, she currently leads Argentina’s leftist Peronist opposition party and remains influential in the country’s politics.
Rather than taking responsibility for her actions, Fernandez de Kirchner has blamed Argentina’s current libertarian President Javier Milei for influencing the U.S. decision. She has appealed her conviction to Argentina’s top court and continues to deny all allegations despite overwhelming evidence.
The U.S. action comes as part of a broader effort to target corruption worldwide, particularly when it involves high-ranking government officials. Despite her conviction, Fernandez de Kirchner is not currently serving her prison sentence while her appeal is pending.
