Trump Reveals Next Move if Kenya Blocks US Ebola Facility

The administration of US President Donald Trump has revealed its next move if Kenya ends up blocking the establishment of a proposed Ebola quarantine facility meant to house Americans exposed to the deadly virus.

The revelation comes as the High Court continues to hear a case challenging the planned facility, which has been temporarily halted through conservatory orders.

Speaking during a press conference on Tuesday, June 2 2026, Trump’s health adviser, Dr. Mehmet Oz, said the United States remains hopeful that discussions with Kenya will lead to a solution, but noted that other countries could be considered if the project fails to proceed.

“We are confident, and the State Department is working on this diligently, that they’re going to be able to work out something with Kenya,” Dr. Oz said.

His remarks come days after the High Court in Nairobi temporarily stopped the establishment of the US-linked Ebola quarantine and isolation facility in Laikipia County.

The court also barred the government from allowing the entry, transfer or admission into Kenya of individuals exposed to Ebola under the proposed programme until the case is heard and determined.

The petition was filed by Katiba Institute and the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), which argue that the project raises constitutional and public participation concerns.

Why the US Wants the Ebola Facility Near Congo

During the press briefing, Dr. Oz defended the decision to establish a facility in East Africa rather than transport exposed individuals back to the United States.

Responding to a journalist who questioned why Americans could not simply return home for treatment, the health adviser said proximity to outbreak zones is critical in emergency medical situations.

According to him, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) remains one of the regions where Ebola outbreaks have occurred, making nearby facilities important for rapid response.

“The main issue with having a facility close to the Democratic Republic of the Congo is if a patient is sick,” he said.

“As a doctor, I want to take the patient to the operating room that’s right next door to where they are, not to another building or another country, because time is precious.”

He argued that moving potentially exposed individuals across the world may not be the best option.

“Sending them across the world, especially when we’re not sure what’s going on with them, is probably not the wisest move,” he said.

Also Read: Canada Announces Travel Ban for Three African Countries Over Ebola Fears

Alternative Countries Being Considered

Despite expressing confidence that an agreement with Kenya can still be reached, Dr. Oz disclosed that Washington has explored other options.

He said the US has been in communication with other partners that may be willing to host such operations if necessary.

“There has already been a fair amount of communication around this issue,” he said.

Also Read: Why I Agreed to Establish US Ebola Facility in Kenya – Ruto Explains

The adviser specifically mentioned the presence of a British facility in the region and also referred to cooperation with Germany.

“We have a UK base there, we have other people who might be willing to welcome us, and we have our German colleagues as well,” he stated.

“So there are many places we can send folks.”

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Kenya’s President William Ruto poses for a photo with U.S President Donald Trump. PHOTO/PCS.