The Venezuelan government denounced this Tuesday that the Trump administration is holding 33 children kidnapped and separated from their families, and thus demanded their immediate release.
Through his channel on Telegram, Chancellor Yván Gil denounced this action as a violation of international law, human rights, and even US laws. He described the measure as «a criminal, inhumane, and illegal practice,» incompatible with a country that presents itself as a defender of freedoms while violating the fundamental rights of children.
Gil directly pointed to John McNamara, the US Chargé d’Affaires in Colombia, as «directly responsible» for what he considered an «illegal and profoundly immoral» situation, demanding family reunification without conditions.
With the resumption of repatriations of nationals, several cases of children separated from their parents and transferred to foster homes or detention centers have become public, even when their parents seek to return with them.
One of the most well-known cases is that of Maikelys Espinoza, a minor who was separated from her mother and father (the latter kidnapped in El Salvador) until she was rescued on May 14, following intensive efforts for her return.
In addition, numerous protests have taken place in Venezuela demanding the repatriation of the affected minors.