President Trump Signs Executive Order to Protect Citizens Abroad
On this recent Friday, President Donald Trump signed an executive order enabling the United States to impose sanctions on countries engaging in “unjust” detentions of American citizens. This move aims to create a list of countries labeled as “state sponsors of unjust detention,” similar to the existing list of countries considered patrons of terrorism.
Secretary of State’s Role in Designating Countries
The Secretary of State will be responsible for identifying countries participating in or currently holding American citizens unlawfully. The criteria for labeling a detention as “unjust” will be guided by the well-known Levinson Law.
Potential Sanctions Against Offending Nations
Countries included in this list may face various sanctions, which could include tariffs, restrictions on entry for nationals from these countries into the US and travel by American citizens to these states, suspension of economic aid or limitations on exports.
US Commitment to Upholding Rule of Law
The executive order emphasizes that unjust detentions are an affront to the rule of law and aim to undermine US global leadership. The United States will not tolerate such attacks on its sovereignty or its citizens.
Background and Context
This executive order stems from concerns over the increasing number of American citizens being unlawfully detained abroad. Under President Trump’s second term, 72 Americans have been released from such detentions, while the previous administration under President Joe Biden saw 24 more Americans detained than released.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the purpose of this executive order? The order aims to protect American citizens from unjust detention abroad by imposing sanctions on countries engaging in such practices.
- Who will be responsible for designating countries? The Secretary of State will identify countries participating in or holding American citizens unlawfully.
- What sanctions may be imposed? Potential sanctions include tariffs, travel restrictions, suspension of economic aid, and limitations on exports.
- Why is this action being taken now? There has been a growing concern over the unlawful detention of American citizens abroad, with more cases surfacing during President Biden’s term.
