Nuku’alofa, Tonga — Tonga’s Crown Prince Tupouto’a ‘Ulukalala, the kingdom’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, is leading Tonga’s response to the Trump administration’s demand that the country address unspecified concerns within 60 days—or face a ban on its citizens travelling to the United States.
Prime Minister ʻAisake Eke revealed the development during a press conference this afternoon, marking the government’s first public response since Kaniva News and other outlets reported Tonga’s inclusion on 36 nations targeted for a potential expanded U.S. travel ban.
The Prime Minister offered no specifics about Tonga’s pending reply, stating only that the Crown Prince holds responsibility for the matter as a foreign minister.
“The Crown Prince is working on our response, and we will follow the proper diplomatic channels,” Eke told reporters, deflecting further questions.
The U.S. has not publicly detailed its grievances with Tonga, leaving officials and analysts to speculate whether the threat stems from gaps in document security, immigration risks, or geopolitical tensions.
The looming deadline has sparked concerns among Tongan diaspora communities in the U.S., where tens of thousands reside, many relying on family reunification visas.
Tonga, a Pacific nation with a population of over 200,000, has about 100,000 residents living in Tonga and more than 100,000 in the diaspora. It has rarely faced such direct scrutiny from Washington.
Diplomatic observers suggest the Crown Prince’s response could require concessions on passport controls or data-sharing agreements to avert the ban.
Kaniva News contacted the US Embassy in Nuku’alofa for comment.
