South Sudan Denies Expelling U.S. Ambassador, Dispels Embassy Closure Rumors

 

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Amb. Apuk Ayuel Mayen

South Sudan’s Foreign Ministry has firmly denied social media rumors claiming the expulsion of U.S. Ambassador Michael J. Adler and the closure of its embassy in Washington, D.C.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Amb. Apuk Ayuel Mayen labeled the reports as “entirely without merit,” confirming that Ambassador Adler remains fully accredited and in active diplomatic engagement with Juba. 

The new Foreign Minister, Monday Semaya K. Kumba, reportedly met with Adler on Saturday to reaffirm bilateral ties.

“Our embassy in Washington is open and operational,” Mayen stated, adding that the government values its relationship with the United States and is committed to strengthening cooperation.

The clarification follows rising diplomatic tensions after South Sudan initially rejected a U.S. deportation, claiming the individual was Congolese. 

Though Juba later acknowledged the deportee’s nationality, Washington upheld a visa freeze on South Sudanese nationals—raising concerns for those under temporary protected status in the U.S.

The government’s prompt denial of the expulsion rumors appears aimed at maintaining diplomatic stability and calming public concern amid ongoing U.S.-South Sudan strains.