President Trump Expresses Gratitude to President Bukele for Accepting Deported Gang Members into El Salvador’s Maximum-Security Prison
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly expressed his gratitude to El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele for accepting deported gang members into the country’s maximum-security prison, a move that aligns with Trump’s long-standing efforts to combat gang violence and illegal immigration.
In a statement, Trump praised Bukele’s leadership and commitment to law and order, emphasizing the importance of cooperation between the U.S. and El Salvador in addressing criminal organizations like MS-13. “President Bukele has done a fantastic job in cracking down on gang violence, and I appreciate his willingness to take back these dangerous criminals and ensure they are locked up where they belong,” Trump said.
Under Bukele’s administration, El Salvador has implemented a tough stance on gang activity, leading to the arrest of thousands of suspected criminals and the establishment of a high-security mega-prison designed to hold the country’s most notorious gang members. The U.S. has also ramped up deportations of individuals linked to criminal organizations, sending many back to their home countries, including El Salvador.
Bukele’s security policies have received both praise and criticism. Supporters argue that his aggressive measures have significantly reduced crime and restored safety to communities long plagued by gang violence. However, human rights organizations have raised concerns over due process and alleged abuses in the mass incarceration strategy.
Trump’s remarks come amid ongoing debates about immigration policies and border security in the U.S. His acknowledgment of Bukele’s efforts signals continued support for stringent anti-gang measures and cross-border cooperation on crime reduction. As both leaders remain influential figures in their respective countries, their collaboration on security issues is likely to remain a focal point in U.S.-El Salvador relations.
