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El Salvador Gains from U.S. Deportation Strategy

A look into how President Bukele benefits from deporting gang members to El Salvador.

By Annie Correal and Pranav BaskarSource: nytimes.com1 min read
El Salvador Gains from U.S. Deportation Strategy
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In brief

As the U.S. government sends gang member deportees to El Salvador, President Nayib Bukele reaps political rewards, positioning his country as a model for others.

El Salvador is seeing significant benefits from its collaboration with the U.S. regarding immigration and deportation policies. President Trump has ramped up efforts to deport undocumented immigrants, including those accused of gang ties. This has led to a new agreement where these deportees are sent to a maximum-security facility in El Salvador, enhancing President Nayib Bukele’s standing with the Trump administration. In return, Bukele has celebrated a White House visit and an improved travel safety rating for his nation, surpassing that of France. Experts suggest that this partnership may serve as a blueprint for other countries, as more leaders express willingness to accommodate deportees. Immigration advocates are observing these developments closely, as they signal a shift in international deportation practices. The U.S. administration appreciates Bukele’s cooperation, viewing his prison facilities as suitable for what they term "illegal criminals." As global attention shifts, the implications of this arrangement could influence how other nations manage their migrant and deportation strategies.

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