Tense Exchange: Trump and El Salvador’s President Bukele Challenge CNN Reporter Over Deportation Case
During a high-profile meeting at the White House, former President Donald Trump and El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele sparked headlines after confronting CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins during a press event.
The discussion centered on the controversial case of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Maryland resident and Salvadoran national whose return to the U.S. has become a legal and diplomatic flashpoint.
President Bukele firmly stated that El Salvador has no plans to extradite Abrego Garcia, dismissing a U.S. Supreme Court decision that called on the Trump administration to facilitate his return. “I don’t have the authority to send him back,” Bukele remarked, labeling Collins’ line of questioning as “absurd.”
He emphasized that his government does not support releasing individuals from custody unless legally required.
The confrontation intensified when Senator Marco Rubio joined the conversation, defending the administration’s stance.
“Abrego Garcia was in the United States illegally and was returned to his country,” Rubio asserted. “Foreign policy is the responsibility of the President, not the courts.”
When Collins pressed the issue, Trump responded sharply, questioning the nature of her repeated inquiries.
“Why don’t you report that we’re keeping dangerous criminals out of the country?” he said. “That’s why people don’t trust the media—you’re not being honest.”
WATCH:
JUST IN: President Trump has multiple members of his admin take turns ripping CNN’s Kaitlan Collins after she asked why an alleged MS-13 member was deported to El Salvador.
Lmao.
Pam Bondi, Stephen Miller, Marco Rubio, as well as Nayib Bukele all ripped the media after Collins… pic.twitter.com/R7Y2ZOSt37
— Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) April 14, 2025
President Trump went on to criticize prior immigration policies and outlined his administration’s focus on border security and public safety.
He claimed a large number of violent criminals entered the U.S. during previous administrations and emphasized ongoing efforts to strengthen law enforcement recruitment and border control.
Bukele echoed Trump’s sentiments, praising recent improvements in U.S. military and police recruitment, which both leaders attributed to stronger policies and national pride.
This exchange highlighted the ongoing tension between the media and political leaders, especially on issues related to immigration enforcement, sovereignty, and public safety.
