Strong Leads Effort to Counter Threats to America’s Armed Forces, Strengthen National Security

WASHINGTON - Representative Dale Strong today introduced theTargeted Restrictions Upholding Service Trustworthiness(TRUST)Actto prohibit the enlistment and appointment of foreign nationals from adversary nations into the United States Armed Forces.

Current policies allow certain foreign nationals to enlist or receive officer appointments in the Armed Forces, including those from nations designated as foreign adversaries under federal law, such as Iran, Russia, China, and North Korea. The TRUST Act addresses these vulnerabilities by prohibiting future enlistment or appointment of foreign nationals from adversary countries that work against American interests.

"Foreign nationals from countries who wish to do us harm have no place defending this nation. As threats to the United States increase, both at home and abroad, we must ensure that those who wear the uniform have a duty to our nation alone," said Representative Dale Strong.

The legislation follows several recent federal prosecutions involving espionage, foreign influence operations, and attempts to obtain sensitive U.S. military information, including cases announced by the U.S. Department of Justice involving foreign nationals and service members accused of acting on behalf of hostile foreign governments.

"These vulnerabilities cannot be ignored," said Strong. "Our adversaries are actively targeting America's military capabilities and sensitive technologies. This common-sense bill would ensure our Armed Forces remain secure, trusted, and fully committed to defending the United States."

The TRUST Act would:

• Prohibit Enlistment: Bars nationals of covered nations (as defined in 10 U.S.C. § 4872(f)) from enlisting in the U.S. military, including nationals of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

• Strengthen Appointment Standards: Requires that any individual appointed as a military officer must not have been a national of a covered nation for five years preceding appointment.

• Improve Oversight and Accountability: Directs the Secretary of War to report to the House and Senate Armed Services Committees on the number of current service members who are nationals of covered nations, including years of service and citizenship status.

Although existing vetting procedures are extensive, recent criminal cases involving espionage and foreign influence underscore the need for additional safeguards to mitigate risks posed by individuals with ties to foreign adversary governments.

Representatives Barry Moore (AL-01) and Eli Crane (AZ-02) joined as original cosponsors.

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