Trump plans to pardon former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez

Published: Saturday, November 29, 2025 at 12:19 am

Trump to Pardon Former Honduran President, Fuels Political Speculation

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Friday his intention to pardon former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez, who was convicted of drug trafficking and weapons charges in 2024 and sentenced to 45 years in prison. Trump cited the belief that Hernandez was treated "harshly and unfairly" as the basis for his decision, according to a social media post.

Hernandez was convicted in a U.S. court of conspiring to import cocaine into the United States. He served two terms as the leader of Honduras, a Central American nation. Hernandez is currently appealing his conviction while serving time in a West Virginia penitentiary.

Trump's announcement was part of a broader message supporting Nasry "Tito" Asfura's bid for the Honduran presidency. Trump stated the U.S. would be supportive if Asfura wins the election this Sunday. However, he warned that the U.S. would not provide aid if Asfura loses, suggesting that a "wrong Leader can only bring catastrophic results to a country."

Asfura, a conservative candidate, is making his second run for president. He has pledged to address Honduras' infrastructure needs but has faced accusations of embezzling public funds, which he denies. Other contenders for the presidency include Rixi Moncada and Salvador Nasralla.

Trump has framed the Honduran election as a test for democracy, suggesting that a loss for Asfura could lead to Venezuela-like outcomes. He has previously taken a hard stance against Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.

Outgoing Honduran President Xiomara Castro has maintained a pragmatic approach in dealing with the U.S. administration.

BNN's Perspective:

While a pardon is within the President's power, this decision raises questions about the message it sends regarding accountability for serious crimes. The timing, coinciding with the Honduran election, adds another layer of complexity, potentially influencing the outcome and the future of U.S.-Honduran relations.

Keywords: Donald Trump, Juan Orlando Hernandez, Honduras, pardon, drug trafficking, Nasry Asfura, election, Venezuela, Xiomara Castro, U.S. foreign policy

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