The US State Department has added a “wrongful detention” warning to its travel advisory for China, alerting American citizens to the risk of arbitrary arrest and detention under Chinese law. This follows a broader expansion of the warning list to include China, alongside Russia and Eritrea.

The advisory, issued on Monday, added the “D” risk indicator for wrongful detention, while keeping the overall travel advisory level at Level 2, or “Exercise Increased Caution.” The warning urges Americans visiting mainland China to take precautions due to the potential for arbitrary enforcement of laws.

This update comes as part of the US government’s ongoing efforts to inform citizens of risks in foreign jurisdictions. The warning is based on reports of cases where individuals have been detained without due process, raising concerns about legal protections for American nationals.

The inclusion of China on the list reflects growing diplomatic tensions and concerns over legal treatment of foreign nationals. The warning does not indicate a specific increase in incidents but highlights the possibility of arbitrary detention.

The US has long maintained travel advisories for countries with perceived risks to citizens. This latest update underscores the administration’s focus on protecting American interests abroad. The warning is part of a broader strategy to ensure transparency and preparedness for travelers.