Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro condemned the U.S. deportation of over 200 migrants, calling it a “kidnapping” and claiming the deportees are not criminals. He plans to petition the government of El Salvador for their return while gathering public support. The deportations, ordered by President Trump citing migrant crime involvement, have further strained U.S.-Venezuela relations and raise concerns over deportee treatment in El Salvador’s prison facilities.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro has publicly condemned the recent deportation of over 200 Venezuelan migrants from the United States, labeling it an act of “kidnapping.” He argues that those deported are not criminals and has expressed a desire for their immediate return. This statement was made during a rally on Wednesday, where Maduro emphasized that the deported individuals did not commit any crimes in the United States.
Maduro criticized Nayib Bukele, the President of El Salvador, for cooperating in what he described as a kidnapping, claiming, “They were not brought to trial, they were not given the right to a defense… they were deceived, handcuffed, put on a plane, kidnapped…” He announced intentions to formally petition the government of El Salvador for the return of these migrants, gathering substantial public support for this cause.
The situation escalated when President Donald Trump ordered the deportation of 238 Venezuelans, alleging links to the Tren de Aragua gang, despite a court’s intention to halt the operation. This action has exacerbated tensions between Washington and Caracas, with Trump asserting concerns of an “invasion” of migrants, thus characterizing those deported as harmful individuals.
In addition to the Venezuelans, 23 Salvadorans were deported under an agreement between the U.S. and El Salvador, transported to the Counter-Terrorism Confinement Center (CECOT) in Tecoluca, known for its harsh conditions. Civil rights organizations have denounced the treatment of migrants in such facilities, citing widespread human rights violations.
Protests erupted in Caracas, with demonstrators expressing solidarity for the deported individuals, some of whom recognized their relatives in footage aired on media outlets. Maduro reported the strong public backing gained for demanding the return of families, stating, “I celebrate that millions… have come out to support the families of these young Venezuelans.”
The White House has not substantiated its claims linking the deported individuals to criminal activities, while ICE has defended the deportations as a result of extensive investigations. However, the specifics regarding the identities of those deported remain undisclosed, leading to further speculation among advocates.
Previous cases have seen deported Venezuelans disputing any ties to gangs, including Daniel Simancas Rodríguez, who claimed he was wrongfully targeted due to his tattoos. Following these events, Maduro directed his administration to escalate repatriation efforts for Venezuelans detained abroad, asserting the need to restore respect and dignity to returning citizens.
In summary, President Nicolas Maduro’s condemnation of the U.S. deportation of Venezuelan migrants underscores rising tensions between Venezuela and the United States. Maduro’s claims of “kidnapping” reflect a broader critique of immigrant treatment, calling for their return while mobilizing public support. With both countries’ administrations firmly at odds, the humanitarian implications become increasingly crucial, particularly regarding the treatment of deportees in facilities known for harsh conditions.
Original Source: tribuneonlineng.com
