Honduras President Xiomara Castro Threatens to End US Military Cooperation Over Trump's Deportation Plans

Honduras President Xiomara Castro recently warned of halting military cooperation with the US if President-elect Donald Trump proceeds with mass deportations. In a televised address, Castro stated that such actions would force Honduras to reconsider its military ties with the US. "Faced with a hostile attitude of mass expulsion of our brothers, we would have to consider a change of our cooperation policies with the United States, especially in the military realm," Castro said.

Castro emphasised that the US has maintained a presence in Honduras for decades without financial compensation. She suggested that if Hondurans are expelled en masse, the US military presence would lose its justification. Despite these strong words, Castro expressed hope for dialogue with the incoming Trump administration.

Regional Reactions and Political Criticism

This statement is part of a broader regional response to Trump's early pronouncements. For instance, Trump's threat to impose tariffs on Mexico led to suggestions of retaliatory measures from Mexico. Additionally, Trump criticised Panama Canal transit fees and hinted at reclaiming control, which Panama's president firmly rejected.

The main US military base in Honduras is Soto Cano Air Base near the capital. Although it is a Honduran base, the US has had a significant presence there since 1983. This base serves as a critical point for humanitarian and anti-drug missions in Central America and houses Joint Task Force Bravo.

Political Opposition and Concerns

Castro's comments have sparked criticism from her political opponents. Jorge Cálix, a potential presidential candidate for the Liberal Party in Honduras' upcoming elections, accused Castro of endangering Honduras for personal and ideological reasons. Olban Valladares, a political analyst considering running for office, also criticised Castro's threat.

"She knows we don't have the ability to threaten the United States in any way, that the damages it would cause Honduras would be terrible," Valladares said. He warned that such statements could make Honduran migrants more vulnerable to Trump's policies.

US Government's Silence

The US government has remained silent on Castro's comments. The US Defense Department declined to comment, stating that it pertains to campaign statements rather than policy. Similarly, the US Embassy in Honduras did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

As tensions rise over potential deportations and military cooperation, both countries face challenges in maintaining their longstanding relationship. The situation underscores the complexities of international diplomacy amid changing political landscapes.