Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández's Letter to President Biden

Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernández recently addressed President Joe Biden in a letter that reflects on their past collaboration and shared goals regarding regional security and drug trafficking. Hernández highlights the Third Safe Country Agreement signed in 2019, which aimed to curb illegal migration and bolster asylum protections between the United States and Honduras.

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Hernández emphasizes the importance of their alliance in combating narcotics and enhancing national security. He recalls Biden's praise for his administration's efforts, stating, “I want to congratulate you and your country... you have done a fantastic job.” He asserts that both leaders faced significant threats from criminal organizations, yet remained committed to improving their nations' safety.

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The former president outlines his administration's strategies, including the expulsion of the Venezuelan ambassador to combat drug trafficking and the establishment of an "air shield" to intercept narcotics flights from South America. He argues that these measures reflect a shared vision for regional security.

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In his letter, Hernández expresses concern over the Biden administration's approach to immigration and drug trafficking, suggesting that recent policies have undermined their previous successes. He draws parallels between his own experiences of being labeled a dictator for enforcing public order and Biden's challenges with political opposition. Hernández states, “I too was labeled a dictator, simply for creating the Military Police,” indicating a belief that strong measures are necessary for national security.

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Hernández's letter serves as both a reflection on past cooperation and a critique of current U.S. policies. He underscores the importance of maintaining a united front against criminal networks and emphasizes the need for continued collaboration to secure borders and protect democracy. He also references his support for Biden's decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, highlighting their shared beliefs.

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• “You congratulated me publicly, saying: “I want to congratulate you and your country, and I want to say you have done a fantastic job.” — Juan Orlando Hernández, Former President of Honduras

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• “We're delighted to have with us, President Juan Orlando Hernandez of Honduras, and the First Lady of Honduras. And I have to tell you, thank you, sir, that President Hernandez is working with the United States very closely. You know what's going on on our southern border. And we're winning after years and years of losing. We're stopping drugs at a level that has never happened.” — Joe Biden, President of the United States

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Hernández's letter to President Biden encapsulates a complex relationship marked by shared goals and contrasting political landscapes. While he seeks to reaffirm their partnership in addressing drug trafficking and migration issues, he also critiques the current administration's policies, advocating for a return to their previous collaborative efforts. The letter serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in U.S.-Honduran relations and the broader implications for regional security.

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