El Salvador Denies Return of Wrongly Deported Maryland Man

During a meeting with President Trump, El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele stated he would not facilitate the return of Kilmar Abrego García, a Maryland man deported to El Salvador, claiming it would be 'preposterous' to suggest he smuggle him back to the U.S. Trump administration officials, including Attorney General Pam Bondi, emphasized that the decision is entirely up to the Salvadoran government, stating they would provide a plane if El Salvador chooses to return him. This deportation occurred amidst controversies surrounding the legal justification and the conditions in which Abrego García is held in El Salvador's maximum-security prison. Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen has expressed concern for Abrego García's safety and is seeking a meeting with Bukele to advocate for his return. Additionally, the Department of Justice contended that courts lack the authority to compel the Executive Branch regarding foreign relations, complicating the situation further. The incident highlights ongoing tensions in U.S.-El Salvador relations regarding immigration policy and deportations.