Washington, Apr 28 (IANS): US President Donald Trump said that an ongoing ban that prevents travellers from Europe from entering America, will continue until the COVID-19 situation, which he describes as "tragic", improves.

"We're looking at that and it depends on how long it's taking Europe to heal. Italy is starting to make a comeback. I'm very happy to see that with my friend the Prime Minister," Trump said on Monday, referring to the head of the Italian government, Giuseppe Conte.

"It's tragic what went on in Italy, in Spain, in France and in Germany, frankly, in every country over there. It's tragic, but we'll be looking at what's happening in Europe and certainly we want to do that (lift the restrictions) and they want to do that too, very badly," he added.

The ban came to effect on March 14 for an initial period of 30 days that has already been extended and can be done so again as Trump deems appropriate, reports Efe news.

This measure affects only foreign citizens, while Americans and those permanently residing in the country can theoretically continue to travel, although air traffic is mostly suspended.

Earlier this month, Trump said that the ban will be lifted "at the right time", but he did not want to say whether that would happen in weeks or months.

At that time he also criticized the response of European countries to the pandemic.

"I would not say that Italy is doing very well right now. I would not say that Spain is doing very well right now. And France has just extended its order of confinement," Trump said then to justify his decision.