Trump: No Request Made to El Salvador President for Return of Abrego Garcia

President Trump stated that he hasn’t requested Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele to transfer Kilmar Agredo Garcia into U.S. custody, even though the U.S. acknowledges deporting him to El Salvador was a misstep. interview published Friday Mr. Trump referred to Abrego Garcia's case as another instance of "men competing in women's sports" pushed by the Democrats.

When questioned by Time magazine about whether he had sought from President Nayib Bukele the return of Abrego Garcia, Mr. Trump stated, 'I didn’t inquire directly, yet I was informed he would not,'” referring to a judicial directive compelling the administration to “assist” with Abrego Garcia’s release. ‘My lawyers have never prompted me to reach out,’ he added. ’Apart from your query here today, nobody has ever instructed me to pose this question.’

Trump administration officials have argued They cannot repatriate Abrego Garcia to the U.S. as it depends on Bukele's decision regarding his deportation. However, Bukele has the authority to make this call. stated during a White House gathering earlier this month He lacks the ability to bring him back on his own. "Do I sneak him into the United States, or what? Obviously, I won’t do that. The question is absurd," Bukele said to journalists.

The situation has led to a legal impasse. Abrego Garcia, who unlawfully entered the U.S. in 2011, was transferred to CECOT, a high-security facility in El Salvador, along with numerous other immigrants last month. This occurred despite a previous court order prohibiting his deportation to El Salvador. Government authorities have termed this action as a mere “administrative mistake,” yet they haven’t taken steps to return him despite knowing about the issue. a court ruling — as confirmed by the Supreme Court — stated that the administration has to assist with his repatriation. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis also mentioned this. has stated that the Trump administration hasn't followed her orders.

Earlier this month, Abrego Garcia was moved From CECOT to a less secure facility.

Mr. Trump contended to Time that his administration is adhering to the rulings of the courts. He additionally mentioned that he wouldn’t be concerned if Abrego Garcia were returned to the United States and subjected to the U.S. judicial process, though he stated this decision rests with his team’s legal advisors.

As several prominent Democratic politicians advocate for Abrego Garcia’s return, Mr. Trump indicated that he sees the situation as politically advantageous. “This seems like another attempt at pushing men into women’s sports by the Democrats,” he stated—likely referring to discussions about transgender athletes competing in women’s sports, an issue that has been a key part of his 2024 campaign. messaging .

When questioned about whether Abrego Garcia deserves his day in court, Mr. Trump referred to him as a part of the infamous MS-13 gang and labeled him a "wife beater." He repeated claims that had circulated from his administration for several weeks. Attorneys representing Abrego Garcia refuted these assertions regarding his affiliation with MS-13 and pointed out that he has not faced criminal charges. His spouse is also mentioned as Abrego Garcia’s wife. accused him Regarding domestic abuse in a 2021 petition for protection order, although she later informed journalists that things did not get worse, leading her to decide against pursuing the legal proceedings.