Senator Van Hollen Advocates for Release of Wrongfully Detained Maryland Man in El Salvador

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen will visit El Salvador to discuss the wrongful detention of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. He aims to secure Garcia’s return following U.S. federal court orders. Garcia is currently held in a dangerous Salvadoran prison, and previous U.S. officials have indicated their reluctance to intervene due to his citizenship status.

U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen is scheduled to travel to El Salvador on Wednesday to engage in discussions with Salvadorian President Nayib Bukele regarding Kilmar Abrego Garcia. Garcia, a Maryland resident, was wrongfully deported and is presently detained in a notorious prison in El Salvador. The senator’s goal is to advocate for Garcia’s release, emphasizing that his safe return is a priority for the U.S. government.

Senator Van Hollen has expressed his commitment to visiting Kilmar Abrego Garcia and ensuring his well-being while facilitating constructive dialogue with Salvadoran officials regarding his release. He stated, “Following his abduction and unlawful deportation, U.S. federal courts have ordered the safe return of my constituent Kilmar Abrego Garcia to the United States.” He stressed the urgency of the matter, declaring, “We must urgently continue working to return Kilmar safely home to Maryland.”

The senator’s visit to El Salvador follows previous discussions involving the Trump administration, during which officials asserted that Garcia is a citizen of El Salvador, leaving the U.S. without a significant role in his case. President Bukele has reinforced this position, stating, “Of course I’m not going to” release him back to U.S. soil, calling the question “preposterous.” This ongoing situation highlights the complexities of immigration and deportation issues between the two nations.

In summary, Senator Chris Van Hollen’s impending visit to El Salvador underscores the serious concerns regarding the wrongful deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia. The senator aims to foster dialogue aimed at securing Garcia’s safe release, amid statements from both the Trump administration and President Bukele that complicate the matter. This visit is an essential step in advocating for individual rights and addressing the legal and diplomatic challenges involved in Garcia’s case.

Original Source: wjla.com