President Trump stated that while he has the power to bring Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia back from El Salvador, he refuses to do so based on his belief that Garcia is a gang member. This stance directly contradicts previous claims by his administration and defies a Supreme Court order to facilitate Garcia's return. Despite a judge's ruling that Garcia faced persecution in El Salvador and should not be deported, he was nonetheless sent back, accused of MS-13 ties, though these claims lacked substantial evidence. Trump’s administration insists that it is El Salvador's responsibility to release Garcia, while El Salvador's President Bukele likens releasing Garcia to freeing a terrorist. Evidence against Garcia primarily consists of unsubstantiated allegations and symbols that some experts question as genuine gang affiliations, further complicating the legal and diplomatic situation.

President Trump acknowledged his power to facilitate the return of Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia from El Salvador but refused to act, claiming Garcia is affiliated with gangs, which contradicts previous statements by his administration.

The Trump administration has consistently ignored a Supreme Court order to assist in Garcia's return, arguing that the responsibility lies with the Salvadoran government since Garcia is in their prison.

Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia was initially deported despite an immigration judge's ruling that he should remain in the U.S. due to credible fear of gang persecution, and he was granted temporary protection and a work permit in the U.S.

The evidence used to allege Garcia's ties to MS-13 includes vague claims from an informant and articles of clothing, which have been questioned by judges and experts for lacking substantiation.

El Salvador's President Bukele has refused to release Garcia, arguing that doing so would be akin to freeing a terrorist, and has maintained that the decision rests with his government.

Despite being deported over alleged gang ties, Garcia has not been officially charged or convicted of gang membership, and his tattoos, which Trump cited as evidence, have been disputed by experts.

The Justice Department suggests compliance with the Supreme Court might only involve allowing Garcia entry if he presents himself at the border, reflecting the administration's minimal approach to the court's order.