President Donald Trump has signed an Executive Order aimed at increasing measures against those responsible for the wrongful detention of U.S. nationals abroad. The order introduces new penalties for entities labeled as State Sponsors of Wrongful Detention, which include economic sanctions, visa restrictions, limits on foreign assistance, and travel restrictions for holders of U.S. passports.
The administration stated that this approach is similar to the process used to designate State Sponsors of Terrorism. The intent is to deter countries or groups from detaining Americans as leverage in international dealings.
According to the White House, "The bottom line: Anyone who uses an American as a bargaining chip will pay the price. This administration is not only putting America first but also putting Americans first."
The new policy underscores efforts by the United States government to address cases where its citizens are held overseas under questionable circumstances and signals potential diplomatic and economic consequences for those involved.
