"State Department Imposes Sanctions on Former Salvadoran Leaders and Officials in Central America"

The US State Department has imposed sanctions on two former Salvadoran presidents, including Mauricio Funes, and dozens of other officials and judges in Central America for their involvement in corruption and undermining democratic processes. The extensive list highlights the depth of corruption across the region, which has fueled distrust in institutions and is often cited as a root cause of migration to the United States. While Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, who has been accused of negotiating with gangs, was not sanctioned, Funes criticized the move, suggesting it was a clear backing by the US for Bukele's re-election bid.