The Story Trump’s bromance with the ‘world’s coolest dictator’
May 20, 2025
Stephen Gibbs, a contributor for The Times with a focus on Latin America, shares his insights from El Salvador. He discusses the detention of U.S. migrants in a high-security prison, linking it to President Bukele's aggressive anti-gang policies. Gibbs explores the complex relationship between Bukele and Trump, highlighting the implications for both nations. He also examines the controversial deportation of Venezuelans, painting a vivid picture of the challenges facing refugees amid deteriorating immigration policies. The discussion is a compelling look into the intersection of politics and human rights.
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El Salvador's Dramatic Safety Turnaround
- El Salvador reduced its murder rate by 98% from 2015 to 2024, from over 6,000 murders to just 114.
- The US State Department now rates El Salvador safer than the UK and France for visitors.
Bukele's Tough Crime Measures
- President Bukele's crackdown involves imprisoning roughly 3% of El Salvador's male population without trial.
- This harsh approach has significantly reduced crime but raised serious human rights concerns.
Trump Admires Bukele's Model
- Trump and Bukele’s leaders aligned as Trump’s camp saw Bukele’s model as hopeful blueprint.
- Bukele inspired political approaches focused on strongman popularity and crime control.