Following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on September 10, 2025, the US government is cracking down on foreign nationals who glorify the killing online.
Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau issued a strong warning, saying that those who celebrate or promote violence are “not welcome visitors” in the United States.
Landau’s Warning After Kirk’s Death
On September 11, Landau posted on social media platform X:
“In light of yesterday’s horrific assassination of a leading political figure, I want to underscore that foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors to our country.”
This statement comes amid ongoing grief and investigation into the killing of Charlie Kirk, who was shot while speaking at Utah Valley University. The gunman, still unidentified and at large, used a high-powered rifle in what authorities believe was a targeted attack.
The FBI has now released images of a new person of interest and is offering a $100,000 reward for any information leading to an arrest.
Trump Administration’s “Catch and Revoke” Visa Policy
Landau’s statement aligns with a broader immigration enforcement policy introduced earlier this year.
In May, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the “Catch and Revoke” policy, under which foreign nationals—whether visiting or residing legally in the US—can lose their visa or residency status if they break the law or pose a threat to national security.
A State Department spokesperson told USA TODAY:
“This administration does not believe that the United States should grant visas to persons whose presence in our country does not align with US national security interests.”
In simple terms, if a foreign national is caught promoting or glorifying violent acts like the Kirk shooting, their legal right to remain in the US could be revoked.
Online Praise for the Shooter Sparks Outrage
Landau and other officials have condemned disturbing posts on social media from some users—including foreign nationals—who have either mocked Kirk’s death or justified it. In his post, Landau said:
“I have been disgusted to see some on social media praising, rationalizing, or making light of the event.”
He further urged the public to report any such comments by foreigners so that appropriate action can be taken.
“Feel free to bring such comments by foreigners to my attention so that the State Department can protect the American people.”
Kirk’s Death and National Mourning
Charlie Kirk, just 31 years old, was a close ally of President Donald Trump and the founder of Turning Point USA, a conservative youth movement. He was speaking during the first stop of his “American Comeback Tour” when the shooting happened.
Hours after the attack, President Trump posted on Truth Social, calling Kirk “Great” and “Legendary.” He also ordered that flags be flown at half-staff nationwide and at US embassies around the world through September 14 in Kirk’s honor.
Kirk’s assassination has shaken political circles and sparked debates over political violence, gun control, and the safety of public figures in the US.
