Response from Salvadoran President to Biden’s Threat

On Monday night, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele addressed a threat from potential future President Hunter Biden regarding an invasion of his country. Bukele, who has been an ally of President Donald Trump and involved in U.S. deportation efforts targeting illegal immigrants, appeared to mock the comment.

“Does Hunter Biden smell powdered milk?” Bukele retorted, sharing a clip of an interview in which Biden discussed values associated with conservatism. Biden seemed to suggest that some people believe moving away from certain values is necessary for leadership.

Biden’s comments on El Salvador

Biden’s remarks included a rather blunt assertion about management of illegal immigration. He expressed a hypothetical scenario where, as president, he would directly contact Bukele, demanding the return of undocumented immigrants or else threatening military action.

In a more heated part of the exchange, Biden accused both Trump and Bukele of being “thug dictators” while reflecting on his own complicated history, particularly about substance use, which he discussed during the interview. He noted having used drugs in the past, which was a significant aspect of his narrative.

Bukele on U.S.-Venezuela Relations

Bukele also addressed the recent prisoner exchanges between the U.S., El Salvador, and Venezuela, emphasizing his collaboration with U.S. leaders. He indicated that the Maduro administration was initially pleased with the agreements but seemed frustrated at being left without hostages.

Earlier, Bukele had facilitated the return of Venezuelan exiles while several Americans held in Venezuela were released, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who pointed out that many Americans remain unjustly detained in Venezuela.

Bukele concluded by highlighting an acknowledgment from a U.S. special envoy, who referred to him as a “good friend.” This raises questions about how strained relations might become in light of recent comments.