Trump pardoning ex-Honduras president convicted of drug trafficking in US
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump has announced his decision to pardon former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez. The latter was convicted on drug trafficking charges in a US court and sentenced to 45 years in prison. In a social media post, Trump said that Hernandez had been "treated very harshly and unfairly."
Conviction details
Hernandez's conviction and family's reaction to pardon news
Hernandez was convicted in March 2024 for conspiring to import cocaine into the US and for possession of machine guns. He has been appealing his conviction from the US Penitentiary in Hazelton, West Virginia. After Trump's announcement, Hernandez's family gathered in Tegucigalpa to pray for his return. His wife thanked Trump, calling it a correction of an injustice.
Election endorsement
Trump endorses Asfura for Honduras presidency
Trump has also endorsed conservative presidential candidate Nasry "Tito" Asfura in the upcoming Honduran general election. He slammed other candidates Rixi Moncada and Salvador Nasralla, calling Nasralla "a borderline Communist." Trump characterized Asfura as "standing up for democracy" and praised him for campaigning against Venezuela's President Nicolas Maduro.
Military actions
US military action against Venezuela and its impact on Honduras
The Trump administration has accused Maduro of leading a drugs cartel, using drug trafficking as a pretext for military action in the Caribbean. Legal experts have questioned the legality of these actions, citing lack of evidence. Outgoing Honduran President Xiomara Castro has maintained ties with both Cuba and Venezuela while cooperating with the US against transnational organized crime.
International support
Argentine President supports Asfura in Honduras election
Argentine President Javier Milei has also backed Asfura, calling him the best candidate against leftist tyranny. The Honduran election remains competitive among three candidates, with polls showing a tight race.