Honduras maintains extradition treaty with US amid tensions

Honduran President Xiomara Castro announced her government's decision to uphold the extradition treaty with the United States, reversing a previous stance to terminate it due to allegations of U.S. interference in domestic affairs. The treaty, which has facilitated the extradition of key figures accused of drug trafficking, will now include safeguards aimed at ensuring fairness and protecting the integrity of Honduras' armed forces. This decision comes after a period of heightened diplomatic tensions, particularly following a controversial meeting between Honduran officials and Venezuela's Defense Minister, who is implicated in drug trafficking. Castro emphasized that the treaty's execution will be objective and transparent, aimed at maintaining judicial cooperation. The agreement is seen as vital for combating the entrenched drug trafficking issues in Honduras. The opposition has raised concerns that Castro might be using the cancellation of the treaty to shield members of her government from scrutiny.