Weekslong lockups of European tourists at US borders spark fears of traveling to America

A growing number of European tourists are reporting extended detentions by U.S. border officials, raising international concerns. Among them is German citizen Lucas Sielaff, who was held for 16 days after a routine border crossing from Mexico into the U.S. with his American fiancée. He was accused of violating his 90-day tourist permit, despite only spending 22 days in the U.S. Cases like his, including a Welsh backpacker held for nearly three weeks and a Canadian actress detained for 12 days, are prompting backlash. Critics, including immigration advocates, say the treatment reflects a harsher stance under the Trump administration. Britain and Germany have since updated their travel advisories, warning citizens of stricter enforcement. Victims describe overcrowded detention centers, lack of legal clarity, and trauma from the experience. Many are now reconsidering travel to the U.S. amid fears of arbitrary detention.

Source: AP News