Honduras cancels extradition treaty with the U.S., generating controversy and fears.

The recent decision by the government of Honduras, led by President Xiomara Castro, to terminate the extradition treaty with the United States has generated a wide range of reactions both nationally and internationally. The president argued that this measure responds to U.S. "interference" and "interventionism," which, according to her, seeks to direct Honduras's policy through its embassy and other representatives. This statement was made via the social media platform X, where Castro also announced that she had ordered Foreign Minister Enrique Reina to formally denounce the treaty. This treaty, which many have considered an essential tool for combating drug trafficking and dismantling what U.S. justice has labeled a "narco-state" in Honduras, was signed under the administration of former President Juan Orlando Hernández. During his term, the country faced multiple accusations regarding its ties to organized crime, generating a climate of distrust and concern among the international allies of the Central American nation. Castro's decision came in a tense context, following a meeting between Honduran officials and Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino López, who is under U.S. sanctions. The U.S. ambassador to Honduras, Laura Dogu, expressed her surprise and concern over this meeting, noting that seeing high-ranking Honduran officials sitting next to a drug trafficker was unacceptable. This intensified criticism of Castro's government and its apparent alignment with the Venezuelan regime. Dissatisfaction with the Honduran government's foreign policy is not limited to U.S. authorities. Internally, political figures and analysts have expressed their concern that this decision could strengthen drug trafficking in the country. Honduran lawyer Juan Carlos Barrientos warned that the elimination of the treaty could mean a "free port" for drug traffickers, suggesting that this decision is designed to protect figures close to Castro, including her husband, Manuel Zelaya, who has links to Hernández's case in New York. On the other hand, the Vice President of Congress, Rasel Tomé, defended the government's stance, arguing that international law allows both parties to meet to discuss the potential continuation of the agreement. However, the perception in society is that ending the treaty could have severe and negative repercussions in the fight against organized crime. Castro's position is not new in the Latin American context. In the past, Honduras was one of the few countries that congratulated Nicolás Maduro after his disputed re-election. This closeness to the Venezuelan regime has fueled criticism of Castro's government, which is seen as an ally of governments that challenge U.S. traditional policy in the region. While some sectors celebrate the Honduran government's decision, others are alarmed by the consequences it may bring. Criminologist Gonzalo Sánchez suggested that instead of eliminating the treaty, Honduras should focus on strengthening its judicial system, citing that many of those extradited have received minimal sentences and some are already free. This raises a dilemma about the effectiveness of current policies in the fight against drug trafficking in the country. The situation in Honduras becomes even more complicated when considering the socio-political context of the region. Castro's decision could further exacerbate tensions between Honduras and the United States, a key partner in the fight against drug trafficking and organized crime. The future of the extradition treaty and the bilateral relationship between the two countries is at a crossroads, which could have adverse effects on security and stability in the region. In summary, the decision to terminate the extradition treaty with the United States reflects not only the stance of Xiomara Castro's government regarding national sovereignty but also the growing challenges faced by Latin American countries in their relations with global powers. The international community's response to this measure, as well as its repercussions in the fight against drug trafficking, will be aspects to watch closely in the coming months. Concerns about security and justice in Honduras are intensifying as the country finds itself at a crucial moment in its political history.