Trump to meet El Salvador's president over deportation issues

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to meet with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele at the White House today, amid growing controversy over the deportation of migrants to El Salvador’s notorious high-security prisons, where many detainees face allegations of gang affiliation and harsh c

U.S. President Donald Trump is set to meet with El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele at the White House today, amid rising controversy over deportations and alleged human rights abuses. The two leaders have formed a close alliance, with Trump praising Bukele for accepting deported migrants—many accused of gang affiliation—into El Salvador’s high-security prison system.

The Trump administration has used the 1798 Alien Enemies Act to deport hundreds, including Venezuelans and a Maryland resident, Kilmar Abrego Garcia, who was mistakenly removed despite legal protections. Critics argue many deportees had no chance to challenge their designation as gang members. Human rights organisations have condemned El Salvador’s Terrorism Confinement Centre, where these individuals are held, citing inhumane conditions.

When asked about the alleged abuses, Trump responded, “I don’t see it.” The administration maintains that those deported were properly vetted and labelled members of the Tren de Aragua, considered a terrorist group.

Legal disputes continue, with the U.S. Supreme Court recently reviewing the case of Abrego Garcia. Despite a judge’s order to return him, the Trump administration says it is not obliged to assist.

The alliance has sparked fierce debate over immigration policy, due process, and the ethics of outsourcing detention to foreign prisons.

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