US hits Thai officials with visa sanctions over deportation of Uyghurs to China

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced sanctions against Thai officials for deporting 40 Uyghurs to China, where they face persecution. The U.S. aims to discourage such deportations, emphasizing its commitment to combat China's pressure on nations to return Uyghurs. Rubio stated, "I am immediately implementing this policy by taking steps to impose visa restrictions on current and former officials."

Despite warnings from UN experts, Thailand proceeded with the deportations, fearing relations with China. Rubio reiterated that China's actions toward the Uyghurs amount to "genocide and crimes against humanity." Thailand defends its actions, stating they complied with laws and obligations.