"Venezuelans recently released from El Salvador's Terrorism Confinement Centre (CECOT) announced at a press conference on Friday that they are pursuing legal action over alleged human rights violations following their deportation from the United States. According to the group's testimonies, a US federal judge ruled on December 22 that the Trump administration violated their right to due process by ordering their deportation and confinement at CECOT after labeling them as 'terrorists.' "We welcome the decision of the federal judge, which reaffirms the principle that no government, regardless of its origin, is above international law, the fundamental principles of due process and respect for human rights," said Ysqueibel Penaloza, one of the ex-detainees. "We call on both the government of the United States and that of El Salvador to fully comply with the court order. We demand that the authorities of that country genuinely create the conditions that allow us to take part in the hearing without risk," he urged. The former detainees claim they endured 'psychological and physical abuse' during their confinement at CECOT, leaving lasting effects on their mental health. They also reported ongoing difficulties reintegrating into society. "It hurts me deeply that today I am here and I am not the same person as before, that I cannot walk through my streets without great fear, because I feel the same thing that happened to me there when I was locked up could happen again," said Norbert Aguilar. "Trump is a dictator," added Tito Martinez. "I am truly worried about what my companions are going through over there in the United States, where they are imprisoned, but I know that with God's favour, they will soon return here with us." The Venezuelans also expressed gratitude to President Nicolas Maduro for the government's efforts in facilitating their return home. In March, 252 Venezuelans deported from the United States were imprisoned in CECOT, El Salvador, accused of links to the Tren de Aragua gang, although 90% had no criminal record. In July, they were repatriated to Venezuela as part of a trilateral agreement."