Trump admin. warns non-citizens over remarks on Charlie Kirks' death

Sept. 12 (UPI) -- The Trump administration is warning non-citizens in the United States against making disparaging remarks about Wednesday's shooting death of conservative provocateur and activist Charlie Kirk, requesting the public to report those who have made such comments.

Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau issued the warning on Thursday online.

"In light of yesterday's horrific assassination of a leading political figure, I want to underscore that foreigners who glorify violence and hatred are not welcome visitors in our country," he said in a statement on X.

"I have been disgusted to see some on social media praising, rationalizing or making light of the event, and have directed our consular officials to undertake appropriate action."

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In the post, he also encouraged the public to "bring such comments by foreigners to my attention so that the @StateDepartment can protect the American people."

Several users on X responded to Landau, posting screenshots of purported statements posted online, to which he responded with a State Department branded image emblazoned with the words "El Quitavisas," meaning "The Visa Remover."

Kirk was fatally shot Wednesday while speaking at a Utah Valley University event. Authorities are hunting for the gunman.

The divisive speaker was an ally of President Donald Trump, who on Wednesday night blamed "the radical left" for his death.

"The monster who attacked him was attacking our whole country," the president said.

In response to Landau's statement, a State Department spokesperson explained that the Trump administration "does not believe that the United States should grant visas to persons whose presence in our country does not align with U.S. national security interests."

Under the Trump administration, immigration officials have begun to review the social media of visa applicants and holders for "anti-American" views.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio in March said hundreds of visas had been revoked over links to pro-Palestinian protests.

Social media comments on Kirk's death have also resulted in firings, with at least two universities -- the University of Mississippi and Middle Tennessee State University -- removing employees over unspecified social media posts.