On September 5, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order aimed at enhancing the protection of U.S. nationals from wrongful detentions abroad. This Order grants the Secretary of State the authority to designate countries as State Sponsors of Wrongful Detention, allowing the U.S. government to impose sanctions and other measures against these nations. The goal is to deter foreign adversaries from using American citizens as bargaining tools and to protect the rights of U.S. citizens overseas.

The Executive Order highlights the need to address wrongful detentions as a tactic used by adversarial states to undermine U.S. sovereignty. It points out a perceived failure of the previous administration to respond effectively to such incidents, noting an increase in wrongful detentions during that period. The Trump Administration claims that the new measures will empower officials to take decisive action against countries involved in wrongful detentions, thereby restoring confidence in the protection of American citizens abroad.

Furthermore, the article mentions that since President Trump took office, the administration has successfully facilitated the release of 72 Americans wrongfully detained in various countries. Specific cases, including those of Marc Fogel and Ksenia Karelina, demonstrate the administration’s commitment to bringing detained citizens home. The Executive Order also extends its focus to non-state actors involved in wrongful detentions, representing a comprehensive approach to the issue.

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