Administration of Donald J. Trump, 2020

October 31, 2020

Last night, at my direction, the United States military conducted a successful operation to rescue an American hostage in Nigeria, kidnapped just 96 hours earlier. United States special forces executed a daring nighttime operation to rescue their fellow American with exceptional skill, precision, and bravery. No United States servicemembers were harmed. The former hostage is currently in good health and has been reunited with his family.

Securing the freedom of Americans held in captivity abroad has been a top national security priority of my administration. Since the beginning of my administration, we have rescued over 55 hostages and detainees in more than 24 countries. Today's operation should serve as a stark warning to terrorists and criminal thugs who mistakenly believe they can kidnap Americans with impunity.

Categories: Statements by the President : Nigeria, rescue of U.S. citizen from captivity.

Subjects: Armed Forces, U.S. : Servicemembers :: Service and dedication; Nigeria : U.S. citizen, rescue from captivity; Terrorism : Global threat.

DCPD Number: DCPD202000825.

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