El Salvador arrests prominent human rights lawyer who defends deportees

Ruth Eleonora López, a prominent Venezuelan lawyer and former Cristosal head, has been arrested in El Salvador on embezzlement charges tied to her role as the country’s electoral court chief. Despite efforts by her legal teams, her whereabouts remain unknown, with authorities accused of violating due process. The case highlights growing concerns about heightened risks for human rights defenders in El Salvador under President Nayib Bukele, a Trump ally, who has tightened oversight over critics and civil society groups. International organizations have condemned the situation, urging the government to treat human rights defenders fairly and release López immediately.