The United States has ended all frameworks and instruments designed to counter foreign state information manipulation, according to an announcement made on September 17, 2025. Secretary of State Marco Rubio ordered the closure of the Department of State’s Counter Foreign Information Manipulation and Interference (R/FIMI) Hub, previously known as the Global Engagement Center (GEC), on April 16.
The frameworks were initially established by the GEC with the stated goal of countering disinformation from foreign adversaries. However, officials determined that these tools had shifted toward political censorship rather than protecting Americans from hostile propaganda.
These actions follow President Trump’s Executive Order issued on January 20, which is focused on restoring freedom of speech and ending federal censorship. The order prohibits federal agencies from engaging in censorship activities and seeks to promote free expression.
"Through free speech, the United States will counter genuine malign propaganda from adversaries that threaten our national security, while protecting Americans’ right to exchange ideas," according to the statement.
