The Week at State: American Safety and Global Diplomacy in Focus - Faith & Freedom News

March 14 – March 20

In a week marked by bold policy moves and high-profile media engagements, the State Department has taken significant steps to reinforce American safety and bolster international diplomacy. From transferring dangerous criminals abroad to strategic press briefings, the administration has underscored its commitment to President Trump’s “America First” agenda.

Putting American Safety First

On March 16, under the direction of President Trump, the administration invoked the Alien Enemies Act to remove over 200 members of Tren de Aragua—a designated Foreign Terrorist Organization—from U.S. soil. With the support of El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, these individuals were transferred to the country’s Terrorism Confinement Center. In a historic move aimed at reducing domestic threats, 23 members of the notorious MS-13 gang, including two top leaders, were also sent to El Salvador. “Hundreds of violent criminals were sent out of our country.… President Trump is following through on the promises he made to the American people,” stated Secretary Rubio, emphasizing the measure’s significance in protecting American lives and saving taxpayer dollars.

Secretary Rubio in the Press

Secretary Rubio has been busy on the international stage this week. Wrapping up his travels to Canada, he addressed the media in a series of interviews:

CBS’s Face the Nation: Rubio outlined the U.S. campaign to secure Red Sea shipping lanes and vowed to halt Houthi attacks, which he described as a threat to American prosperity.
Fox News Radio with Guy Benson: The Secretary highlighted that Houthi forces had attacked U.S. vessels 174 times in the past 18 months, attributing these assaults to Iranian support. He called for accountability from Tehran.
Interview with Hugh Hewitt: Focusing on the U.S.-China relationship, Rubio remarked that developments between the two superpowers would “write the story of the 21st century.”

A promotional photo collage of Rubio’s press appearances across major networks underlined the administration’s efforts to reach every American corner with its message of security and strength.

Behind the Scenes at the State Department

Spokesperson Tammy Bruce offered a rare glimpse into the inner workings of the State Department’s press briefings. “Under Secretary Rubio, the State Department is focusing on what we have in common and what we can get done together,” she said during a behind-the-scenes look at the day’s top foreign policy stories. In her exclusive video shared on YouTube, Instagram, and X, Bruce revealed how critical diplomatic efforts—ranging from discussions on the Russia-Ukraine conflict to broader initiatives for global peace—make it to the podium.

Strengthening Diplomatic Ties and Domestic Safety

Secretary Rubio’s week was not solely spent at press events. On March 14, he also dedicated time to meet with embassy employees and Marine Security Guards during his visit to Mission Canada in Quebec. Expressing his gratitude, Rubio emphasized that these dedicated teams are essential for protecting U.S. interests abroad and ensuring the smooth implementation of the America First policy.

Today’s Travel Tips

In a practical aside from policy, the Bureau of Consular Affairs reminded Americans to check their passport expiration dates. With many countries requiring a passport valid for at least six months beyond travel dates, officials urged travelers to renew online or attend Special Passport Acceptance Fairs for a personalized experience.

News You May Have Missed

Hostage Release: George Glezmann was released after 2½ years of captivity in Afghanistan.
Iran Under Pressure: The U.S. took decisive action against Iran’s funding of destabilizing activities.
Maritime Security: The G7 Foreign Ministers Declaration committed to safeguarding a free, open, and secure maritime domain.
Baseball Diplomacy: A look into America and Japan’s shared love of baseball ahead of the 2025 Major League Baseball season kickoff in Tokyo.
Space Collaboration: NASA astronauts safely splashed down off the coast of Florida, underlining the State Department’s support for international collaboration in science and exploration.
Special Olympics: Second Lady Usha Vance led the presidential delegation at the 2025 Special Olympics World Winter Games in Turin, Italy.
Breaking Barriers: Secretary Rubio gave his first Spanish-language interview with Fox Noticias, discussing cartel threats and U.S.-Mexico border updates.

This week at State Department showcased a blend of rigorous policy enforcement and dynamic international engagement, underlining the administration’s dual focus on securing American borders and forging strategic global partnerships.