White House Downplays Concerns as Allies Issue Travel Warnings for the U.S.

As an increasing number of countries update their travel warnings and advisories for the United States, the White House has sought to downplay international concerns over safety, civil unrest, and policy changes under President Donald Trump’s administration. The warnings come amid global scrutiny of US immigration enforcement, rising gun violence, and contentious domestic policies that have put Washington at odds with key allies.

In a recent press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt insisted the U.S. remains a top destination for international visitors. “The U.S. is a great place to do business, a beautiful place to visit, and a much safer country than it was four years ago,” she said, pointing to the administration’s crime reduction policies and border controls.

However, that reassurance stands in contrast to guidance and US travel warnings issued by countries, including New Zealand, Germany, and the United Kingdom, which have updated their travel advisories to reflect what they view as a more volatile American landscape. New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has ranked the U.S. at Level 2 on its four-tier scale—“Exercise Increased Caution”—due to “threats of terrorism and civil unrest.” The advisory, still in effect as of late April 2025, warns of increased violent crime, firearm possession, and the potential for active shooter incidents.

Reporter: Several countries have warned citizens about travel to the U.S.. Do have a message for people who might be reconsidering business or tourism travel to the U.S.?

Leavitt: I think most recognize the U.S. Is a great place to do business, a beautiful place to visit and… pic.twitter.com/BvFFv85Cp2

— Acyn (@Acyn) April 22, 2025

Germany’s Foreign Ministry took a firmer tone, cautioning its citizens that possession of a US visa or electronic travel authorisation (ESTA) does not guarantee entry into the country. It flagged an uptick in cases of travellers being detained or turned away at the US border, raising concerns over transparency and consistency in U.S. immigration enforcement.

The United Kingdom (UK) also updated its travel warning and advice, with a focus on the rigidity of American entry procedures. British officials urged travellers to comply strictly with entry requirements to avoid detention or deportation.

Canada and Australia, though less severe in their warnings, have also flagged concerns. Canada pointed specifically to criminal activity along the US–Mexico border, while Australia cited potential risks of petty theft and violent crime in urban areas.

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These US travel warnings and advisories are more than symbolic—they could affect the flow of tourists, business travellers, and even diplomatic personnel to the U.S. As traveller confidence wanes, tourism and hospitality sectors in the U.S. may begin to feel the financial impact. According to the US Travel Association, even small drops in inbound travel can result in billions of dollars in lost economic activity.

While President Donald Trump has publicly dismissed these concerns, saying tourism is “stronger than ever,” many foreign governments are urging their citizens to reconsider or at least rethink their travel plans. The perception of the U.S. as a turbulent or high-risk destination, whether based on data or public sentiment, presents a persistent challenge for a nation that has historically been regarded as a beacon for global tourism.

With international reputations on the line and diplomatic relationships under strain, the White House faces pressure to address the root causes of these US travel warnings —or risk further erosion of the U.S.’s global image.