Washington, DC – Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement concerning the Trump administration’s reversal of a Biden-era regulation which helped protect U.S. arms transfers from being misused by foreign partners in violation of human rights: 

“I strongly oppose the Trump Administration’s decision to dismantle critical protections against the abuse and misuse of U.S. military equipment by foreign partners. By reversing National Security Memorandum 20, this Administration is rolling back safeguards that not only strengthen human rights protections but also facilitate the delivery of U.S. humanitarian aid.  

“This decision marks a step backward and away from both our laws and values, and signals to the world the U.S. no longer cares how U.S. weapons are used. Our adversaries have long sought to shield themselves from criticism over their own human rights abuses by pointing the finger back at the United States, portraying America as a nation uncommitted to practicing the democratic values that it preaches abroad. In one fell swoop, the Trump administration has helped make their argument for them, weakening U.S. leadership and credibility on human rights. 

“Today’s decision not only opens the door for abuse but represents a repudiation of long-standing U.S. leadership in ensuring our foreign policy is consistent with our values. In my role as Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I will continue to ensure U.S. arms exports serve both our national security interests and align with our democratic principles.”