Trump, Bukele Discuss Mass Deportation, Prison Use

President Donald Trump hosted El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele, known as the 'world's coolest dictator,' to discuss a controversial migrant deportation initiative. Bukele has gained notoriety for his harsh anti-gang policies and the creation of the notorious CECOT prison, where many alleged gang members are detained without due process. The Trump administration has begun sending migrants, some of whom lack any gang affiliations, to this prison under a wartime law, raising human rights concerns. A recent legal battle emerged after a Maryland man was mistakenly deported to El Salvador, prompting a federal judge to order his return, although the Trump administration has shown little urgency in facilitating this. The meeting is seen as a significant alignment between the two leaders, with Trump praising Bukele's tough stance on crime and seeking to expand their partnership in immigration policy. Critics continue to question the legitimacy and transparency of the deportation process, as well as the human rights implications of Bukele's regime.