Honduras ex-president Hernandez returns home after Trump pardon

Former Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez has returned to his home country following a pardon from former U.S. President Donald Trump, which freed him from a 45-year prison sentence. Hernandez landed at Palmerola International Airport on July 26, 2026, eight months after his U.S. sentence began.

Hernandez, who served as president from 2014 to 2022, was convicted in the U.S. on charges related to drug and weapons trafficking, allegations he has consistently denied. The pardon by Trump, issued in late 2025, came amid a contentious presidential election in Honduras and prompted complaints of U.S. interference in the country's political process.

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I cannot deny the profound emotion and joy I feel in my heart to be returning home.

Upon arrival, Hernandez was greeted by family members and hundreds of supporters. He is scheduled to appear before a Honduran court on August 3 to face charges of fraud and money laundering. However, an arrest warrant related to these charges was suspended in June, meaning he will not be detained upon his return.

In a recent interview, Hernandez expressed his profound emotion and joy at returning home, describing his time in prison as extremely difficult. The legal troubles for the former president began with his arrest in February 2022 and extradition to the U.S. two months later. The pardon did not affect the charges he faces within Honduras.

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It wasn't easy. The process has been extremely difficult ... and what I experienced in prison, I truly wouldn't wish on anyone.