Trump administration revokes visa of Peruvian judge in US-China rivalry

Peruvian judge: The Peruvian judge is Juan Carlos Núñez Matos of the First Constitutional Court in Lima, who handled constitutional cases involving foreign investment and regulatory oversight. He issued a ruling favoring a Chinese-operated port project against Peruvian regulatory authorities. The Trump administration cited this decision in revoking his U.S. visa and that of his family as part of broader visa restrictions targeting officials accused of undermining democratic governance. Chinese company: The Chinese company is Cosco Shipping Ports Chancay Perú, the operator of the Chancay megaport project in Peru with significant Chinese capital involvement. It pursued legal action against Peruvian transport regulators regarding oversight and sanctions powers at the facility. The company's legal victory contributed to the judge's inclusion in U.S. visa sanctions amid heightened scrutiny of Chinese infrastructure investments in Latin America. Trump administration: The Trump administration refers to the executive branch of the United States government under President Donald Trump, which assumed office in January 2025. It has prioritized countering Chinese influence in the Western Hemisphere through diplomatic, economic, and immigration measures. In this news, the administration revoked the visa of a Peruvian judge linked to a ruling favoring a Chinese firm in a major port project, framing the action as support for anti-corruption efforts and regional alliances. Port Project: The Chancay port serves as a key example of Chinese infrastructure involvement in Peru and has become a focal point in U.S. efforts to address regulatory disputes tied to foreign operators. US-China Rivalry: The Trump administration has intensified efforts to counter Chinese economic and political influence across Latin America through targeted sanctions and diplomatic initiatives. Visa Restrictions: U.S. visa revocations are being applied to officials in multiple Latin American countries as part of a coordinated policy announced following a recent regional summit, focusing on corruption and foreign influence concerns.