Honduran Leader Threatens to Push U.S. Military Out of Base if Trump Orders Mass Deportations
Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez has issued a warning to the United States, stating that he will push the U.S. military out of the Soto Cano Air Base in Honduras if President Trump orders mass deportations of Honduran immigrants.
The threat comes in response to President Trump’s recent crackdown on illegal immigration, which has included threats of mass deportations and the separation of families at the U.S.-Mexico border. Hernandez has expressed his concern over the potential impact of these policies on Honduran citizens living in the United States, many of whom contribute to the Honduran economy through remittances.
In a statement, Hernandez emphasized the importance of the U.S.-Honduras relationship, but also made it clear that he would not tolerate any actions that harm Honduran citizens. He stated, “We will not allow our people to be treated unfairly or to be subjected to inhumane treatment. We will take all necessary measures to protect our citizens, including pushing the U.S. military out of our country if necessary.”
The Soto Cano Air Base, also known as Palmerola Air Base, has been a key strategic location for U.S. military operations in Central America for decades. It houses a joint task force that conducts humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and counter-narcotics missions in the region.
Hernandez’s threat to push the U.S. military out of the base reflects the growing tension between the two countries over immigration policies. The Trump administration has been pushing for stricter immigration enforcement, including the construction of a border wall and increased deportations, while Honduras has been advocating for more humane treatment of its citizens.
The situation highlights the complex and often contentious relationship between the United States and its Central American neighbors. As the debate over immigration continues to heat up, it remains to be seen how the Trump administration will respond to Hernandez’s ultimatum and what impact it will have on U.S.-Honduras relations moving forward.