BUENOS AIRES, March 22 – The United States has officially barred former Argentine President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner from entering the country, citing her involvement in “significant corruption” during her time in office.
Alongside Fernández, the US State Department also imposed a travel ban on former Planning Minister Julio Miguel De Vido and their families, accusing them of orchestrating multi-million dollar bribery schemes linked to public works contracts.
US Condemns Corruption at the Highest Levels
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, in a statement released Friday, said Fernández and De Vido had “abused their positions” for personal financial gain, resulting in millions of dollars being stolen from the Argentine government.
“The United States will continue to promote accountability for those who abuse public power for personal gain,” Rubio said. “These designations reaffirm our commitment to counter global corruption, including at the highest levels of government.”
Legal Battles and Convictions
Fernández, a dominant figure in Argentine politics, was convicted in 2022 by a three-judge panel for fraud and embezzlement related to public works contracts. In November 2023, an appellate tribunal upheld her six-year prison sentence and a lifetime ban from holding public office.
Despite the ruling, Fernández remains free as she continues to deny all accusations and pursue legal appeals.
The latest US sanctions signal Washington’s strong stance against corruption, reinforcing pressure on international figures accused of misusing public funds for personal enrichment. (AP)
