Judge Demands Action in Deportation Case of Wrongfully Deported Salvadoran

Sun Dec 14 2025 06:15:59 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Federal judge issues a stern warning to Trump administration on Kilmar Ábrego García's deportation, demanding evidence of action within two weeks.

A federal judge has given the Trump administration a two-week deadline to provide evidence regarding their response to the wrongful deportation of Kilmar Ábrego García to El Salvador. Judge Paula Xinis expressed frustration with the lack of action and emphasized the necessity for accountability in the case.

A federal judge has ordered the Trump administration to act swiftly in the case of Kilmar Ábrego García, a Salvadoran man who was mistakenly deported last month. Judge Paula Xinis issued an ultimatum, demanding that evidence of efforts to facilitate his return to the United States be submitted within two weeks. During a tense court appearance in Greenbelt, Maryland, she criticized government officials for their inaction, stating, "To date, what the record shows is that nothing has been done. Nothing."

The Supreme Court recently instructed the administration to "facilitate" Garcia’s return. However, El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele expressed his inability to assist. Government officials have accused Garcia of having ties to the MS-13 gang, but his legal team vehemently denies any criminal association. Judge Xinis has made it clear that she expects full cooperation from the Department of Homeland Security and US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, requiring four officials to testify under oath by April 23.

Last week, the judge also requested daily updates on the progress of Garcia's case. While justice department lawyers have indicated a willingness to help facilitate Garcia's return if he presents himself at a US port of entry, Homeland Security has countered that he would be detained upon arrival, refuting earlier claims of returning him.

Emotional appeals from Garcia's wife, Jennifer Vasquez Sura, have resonated during protests, urging an end to political maneuvering regarding her husband’s fate. A 2019 court ruling had previously protected Garcia from deportation based on potential gang-related persecution upon his return. A recent Supreme Court ruling reinforced that the government's actions that led to his deportation were unlawful.

The controversy surrounding this case may escalate tensions between the Trump administration and the judiciary. The administration has suggested that Judge Xinis is overreaching by interfering with executive decisions regarding foreign policy, while she maintains her authority to address the welfare of legal protections for individuals like Garcia. Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen announced plans to visit El Salvador to advocate for Garcia and ensure his wellbeing, highlighting the political and humanitarian implications of this case.