Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has labeled the U.S. deportation of over 200 alleged gang members to El Salvador as a “kidnapping.” He denies their criminal status, calls for their return, and has mobilized public support for their cause. The situation has incited protests in Venezuela and raised concerns regarding due process and U.S. immigration actions.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has condemned the United States for deporting over 200 alleged Venezuelan gang members to a high-security prison in El Salvador, calling it a “kidnapping.” Maduro rejects the characterization of these individuals as criminals and has demanded their return, asserting that they did not commit any offenses in the U.S.
In addressing his supporters, Maduro criticized El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, urging him not to participate in what he describes as a kidnapping, stating that the deportees were not given proper legal defense or due process. He emphasized this injustice by saying, “They were deceived, handcuffed, put on a plane, kidnapped, and sent to a concentration camp in El Salvador.”
Maduro declared that Venezuela would formally request the return of the deportees through an official document supported by millions of signatures from citizens. The deportations have ignited significant protests in Venezuela, with citizens expressing solidarity with the deportees and condemning their alleged criminal affiliations.
Additionally, Maduro announced intentions to enhance repatriation efforts for Venezuelan migrants detained in the United States, vowing that they would be treated with “respect, dignity, support, and a return to their homeland and families.” The deportations occurred under former President Trump’s authorization, which claimed the deportees were linked to the Tren de Aragua criminal group.
The U.S. administration attributed the deportations to concerns about an “invasion” of migrants and described the deported individuals as part of a “bad group.” As of now, the White House has not provided evidence to substantiate claims linking the deportees to the criminal gang, while U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement stated that it conducted thorough background checks on the individuals involved.
In summary, Maduro’s condemnation of the U.S. deportations highlights his government’s commitment to safeguarding the rights of Venezuelan citizens abroad. The mass protests reflect widespread disapproval within Venezuela regarding the treatment of these individuals, as well as calls for governmental action to ensure their safe return. The issue raises questions about due process and international cooperation on immigration and crime.
Original Source: www.newsx.com
