Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro condemned the U.S. deportation of over 200 Venezuelan migrants to El Salvador, labeling it a “kidnapping” and asserting that they are not criminals. He announced plans to formally request their return, emphasizing widespread support from Venezuelans. The situation has led to public protests and heightened tensions between the U.S. and Venezuela.
Venezuela’s President Nicolas Maduro condemned the recent deportation of over 200 Venezuelan migrants by the United States to a notorious prison in El Salvador. He characterized this action as a “kidnapping,” asserting that these individuals are not criminals and should be returned home. Maduro addressed supporters, stating that El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele should not participate in this act of abduction.
Maduro further criticized the deportation process as lacking due process, emphasizing that the migrants were deceived and forcibly transported. He announced his government would formally request the return of these deportees, with substantial public support manifested through millions of signatures from Venezuelan citizens.
The deported individuals were reportedly linked to the Tren de Aragua gang, leading to their transfer to the Counter-Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT), which has faced accusations of human rights violations. The situation escalated tension between the US and Venezuela, particularly after President Trump invoked a historical wartime law for the deportation.
Protests erupted in Caracas, where relatives of the deported individuals expressed concern over the allegations of criminality and demanded their return. Maduro supported these public calls, emphasizing the need for the Salvadoran government to release the deportees and address their treatment.
The White House has yet to substantiate claims regarding the deportees’ affiliations with criminal organizations. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) stated they conducted a thorough review of the individuals’ backgrounds to determine their criminal links. However, some deportees have strongly denied gang affiliations, asserting that their deportation was based on stereotypes.
In response to the ongoing situation, Maduro pledged to enhance repatriation efforts for Venezuelan migrants detained in the US, stressing the importance of dignity and family reunification for those affected by deportation.
In summary, the deportation of Venezuelan migrants by the United States has led to significant diplomatic tensions, with President Maduro labeling the actions as “kidnapping.” He has vowed to advocate for the return of these individuals and criticized their treatment. Amidst public protests and demands for justice, the complex interplay of immigration, human rights, and international relations remains a focal point of concern.
Original Source: www.cnn.com
