Controversial Detentions
According to ICE official Robert Cerna, many of those deported do not have a criminal history. He acknowledged in court that “many” lacked convictions, arguing that “[A] lack of specific information about each individual actually highlights the risk they pose.”
International Reactions
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro criticized the action, accusing the United States of branding teenagers as terrorists “merely for being Venezuelan.”
Bukele Defends Prison Transfers
Bukele stated, “Today, the first 238 members of the Venezuelan criminal organization, Tren de Aragua, arrived… transferred to CECOT… for a period of one year (renewable).” He further remarked, “The United States will pay a very low fee for them, but a high one for us.”
