Honduras-U.S. Extradition Treaty Dispute: A Brewing Diplomatic Row

Washington urged Honduras to reconsider leaving a long-standing extradition treaty, expressing concern over meetings between Honduran and Venezuelan defense officials. Honduran President Xiomara Castro cited a plot against her government. The dispute highlights rising tensions, with implications for anti-drug trafficking efforts and broader diplomatic relations.

Washington has urged Honduras to reconsider its intention to exit a longstanding extradition treaty, expressing concerns over recent meetings between Honduran and Venezuelan defense officials.

Honduran President Xiomara Castro, who ordered the withdrawal after U.S. Ambassador Laura Dogu's comments, claimed the treaty is being used to meddle in domestic affairs. Castro stated, 'A plan is being hatched against my government and it's important that the people know this.'

'I won't allow the extradition instrument to be used to intimidate or blackmail the Honduran Armed Forces. We're defending our armed forces, not coups,' she added. A U.S. State Department spokesperson emphasized that the extradition treaty remains beneficial for both nations and urged reconsideration to support anti-drug trafficking efforts. This treaty has facilitated high-profile extraditions, including that of Castro's predecessor, Juan Orlando Hernandez.

Tensions flared after U.S. Ambassador Dogu commented on Honduran officials' meeting with Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino, who faces drug trafficking allegations in the U.S. Honduran Foreign Minister Enrique Reina suggested a coup was being promoted within the military. The U.S. has historically influenced Honduran politics, maintaining a significant presence since the Cold War. The U.S. Embassy has not commented further on the issue.

(With inputs from agencies.)