El Salvador’s President Criticizes Maduro Over Prisoner Swap Rejection
El Salvador’s President Bukele criticized Maduro for rejecting a prisoner swap proposal involving Venezuelan deportees for political prisoners. Maduro demanded the release of 250 detainees, alleging human rights violations by Bukele. The proposal highlights the underlying political animosity between the two presidents amidst a backdrop of U.S. involvement.
El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele has criticized Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro for rejecting a proposed prisoner exchange involving Venezuelan deportees from the U.S. Bukele suggested swapping these individuals for what he claims are political prisoners in Venezuela. Maduro, however, has demanded the release of 250 Venezuelans imprisoned in a mega-prison in El Salvador, accusing Bukele of violating human rights.
In a televised address, Maduro asserted that Bukele should sign a decree for the unconditional release of the deportees instead of agreeing to an exchange. Bukele responded on social media, questioning Maduro’s prior commitment to doing “whatever it takes” for the release of Venezuelans held in El Salvador.
The ongoing tension between Bukele and Maduro highlights their opposing political ideologies. Bukele has aligned himself more closely with U.S. President Donald Trump, while Maduro is often viewed as a symbol of democratic decline. The proposal included several high-profile individuals, including political leaders and family members of opposition figures detained in Venezuela.
Maduro’s government reacted strongly, demanding a list of all Venezuelan detainees in El Salvador and details about their health status. Bukele reiterated his offer, citing a recent prisoner swap that occurred earlier this year between the U.S. and Venezuela, which involved the release of a Maduro ally. He emphasized this point in his public communication with Maduro on social media.
The exchange proposal between El Salvador and Venezuela emphasizes the complex diplomatic relations between the two nations. Bukele’s advancements toward a prisoner swap have been met with rejection from Maduro, revealing significant political tension. Both leaders utilize the situation within their respective political narratives, showcasing their contrasting approaches to governance and human rights.
Original Source: apnews.com
