Van Hollen Blasts Trump Decision to Revoke NSM-20

Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement regarding reports that the Trump Administration has revoked National Security Memorandum-20 (NSM-20), a policy put in place by the Biden Administration, intended to ensure American security assistance is used in line with our interests and our values – including U.S. law and international humanitarian law. Senator Van Hollen worked closely with the Biden Administration to craft NSM-20, following his introduction of a proposal to require U.S. aid included within last year’s national security supplemental legislation to comply with U.S. and international law. The Senator had previously expressed frustration with the Biden Administration’s implementation of the policy but has wholly supported its intent.

“President Trump’s decision to revoke this important policy is shameful. It’s a disservice to our national security, to global human rights, and to our standing around the world. This move also undermines American taxpayers’ right to ensure the use of their dollars aligns with our laws and our national interest. It’s another clear example of Trump’s blatant indifference to American values. This is not America first – it’s America in retreat.”