El Salvador’s President Proposes Humanitarian Prisoner Exchange with Venezuela

Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele has proposed a prisoner exchange with Venezuela, offering to return 252 Venezuelans deported by the U.S. in exchange for the release of political prisoners held by Maduro. He emphasizes the humanitarian aspects of the agreement while pointing out the gravity of the crimes committed by the Venezuelan detainees.

On Sunday, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele proposed a prisoner exchange with Venezuela, suggesting that 252 Venezuelans deported by the United States could be traded for an equal number of political prisoners detained by President Nicolas Maduro’s government. Bukele characterized this initiative as a humanitarian agreement, emphasizing that the deported Venezuelans were involved in a United States operation against gangs, specifically referencing the Tren de Aragua organization.

The deportation of these individuals is part of a broader initiative, where 288 migrants, labeled as gang members, have been sent to El Salvador in recent weeks. The U.S. administration under former President Trump has funded Bukele’s government to house these detainees in the CECOT prison, located outside of San Salvador. However, recent Supreme Court rulings have challenged the legality of such deportations, raising constitutional concerns about the Trump administration’s adherence to judiciary decisions.

President Bukele highlighted the gravity of the allegations against the Venezuelan detainees, stating that many had committed serious crimes including murder and rape. In contrast, he accused Maduro’s government of holding political prisoners who have not committed any crimes, merely opposing Maduro’s regime. Bukele is advocating for the release of prominent political figures including opposition leaders and journalists, many of whom have sought refuge in foreign embassies. He also mentioned additional international detainees, expressing solidarity beyond national borders.

In summary, President Nayib Bukele’s proposal for a prisoner exchange with Venezuela aims to address humanitarian concerns while emphasizing the political implications of detentions on both sides. His advocacy for the release of political prisoners juxtaposed with the crimes alleged against detainees reflects a broader narrative regarding justice and governance in the region.

Original Source: www.iosconews.com