“I Will Help You Make America Crime-Free and Protect Its Citizens” — President of El Salvador to President Trump

“I Will Help You Make America Crime-Free and Protect Its Citizens” — President of El Salvador to President Trump
Washington, April 14, 2025:

In a meeting at the Oval Office of the White House on Monday, El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele praised President Donald Trump for his efforts in combating crime and terrorism in the United States and offered his support.

“You now have the opportunity to liberate 350 million Americans,” Bukele told Trump during their discussion.
“We know your country faces challenges with crime and terrorism, and you’ve stated that you need help. We’re a small country, but we can help. We used to be a nation that journalists called the ‘murder capital of the world’ — but now, we’re the safest country in the Western Hemisphere,” Bukele stated.

“Free the Citizens, Not the Criminals”

Bukele proudly said, “We have freed millions of people,” referring to his crackdown on gangs and violent crime in El Salvador.
He then told Trump, “Mr. President, you now carry the responsibility of freeing over 350 million people. Releasing criminals will not reduce crime — punishing them and protecting the public will. Americans want an end to crime and terror, and it’s possible.”

Trump Questions Gender Policies in Sports

During the meeting, President Trump also addressed gender issues, asking Bukele,
“Do men in your country get to participate in women’s sports? Do men get to box with women?”
To which Bukele responded briefly: “That’s violence.”