Trump hosts El Salvador’s Bukele amid deportation controversy
President Donald Trump is set to meet with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele at the White House on Monday. Bukele, who has been referred to as the “world’s coolest dictator,” has been a key ally in the Trump administration’s efforts to deport migrants.
The meeting is expected to address the use of El Salvador’s CECOT mega-prison to house deported migrants, as well as the legal dispute surrounding the wrongful deportation of a migrant from Maryland. The Supreme Court has ordered the administration to facilitate the return of the deported individual, Kilmar Abrego Garcia.
President Trump has expressed his respect for the Supreme Court’s decision but also suggested that the fate of the deported individuals now lies in the hands of President Bukele. Trump praised Bukele for his efforts in handling issues that the U.S. faces, particularly in dealing with violent criminals.
Despite reports of human rights abuses at CECOT, Trump denied seeing any wrongdoing. The administration has deported alleged Venezuelan gang members to El Salvador without much due process. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised the alliance between Trump and Bukele, citing it as an example of security and prosperity in the region.
There have been discussions about sending U.S. citizens convicted of violent crimes to the CECOT prison, a move that legal experts have deemed unconstitutional. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that the idea has been considered but emphasized the need to explore the legality of such actions.
Overall, the meeting between Trump and Bukele will likely focus on immigration issues and cooperation between the two countries in addressing security concerns. The outcome of the meeting could have significant implications for the future of U.S.-El Salvador relations.
