President Trump Issues Travel Ban from Europe

President Trump issued a travel ban from greater Europe to the U.S. for a period of 30 days on Wednesday to prevent the further transmission of coronavirus. 

The restrictions will commence on Friday at midnight, but excludes travelers from the United Kingdom, according to the New York Times. The ban exempts American citizens, permanent legal residents and their families. However, even American travelers may be sent to predetermined airports for additional screening.

The European Commission, which oversees the European Union, issued a statement denouncing the ban on Thursday, claiming “the European Union disapproves of the fact that the U.S. decision to impose a travel ban was taken unilaterally and without consultation.”

The State Department announced a strong advisory to Americans asking them “reconsider travel” to all countries, which is the second strongest advisory outside of “do not travel.” 

As Americans struggle to alter travel plans, the airline, hotel and other travel-related industries are preparing for major hits in revenue. Stock in European Airlines dropped sharply Thursday on the news of the ban, per the Times. The travel and tourism industry between the U.S. and Europe is $130 billion annually.