Deportation flights to Venezuela have resumed after a standoff between the Trump administration and the Venezuelan government. The U.S. had been limited in the frequency of transfers due to President Maduro halting the flights. However, a deal was reached allowing for the return of Venezuelan migrants with the safeguarding of their human rights. A flight carrying 199 illegal aliens, including members of the Tren de Aragua gang, landed in Venezuela, marking the resumption of deportation flights.
President Maduro had initially refused to accept the flights after the U.S. announced the termination of a permit allowing Chevron to export Venezuelan oil. This move closed off a major revenue source for the country. However, a deal was reached between the two governments on Saturday, leading to the resumption of deportation flights on Sunday. This agreement was part of the Return to the Homeland Plan, aiming to bring Venezuelan migrants back to their nation while protecting their human rights.
Flight-tracking data showed a plane operated by ICE leaving El Paso and landing at Soto Cano air base in Honduras, where it was set to be handed off to a Venezuelan state airline Conviasa. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had warned of severe sanctions if Venezuela continued to refuse accepting its citizens facing deportation. In recent weeks, over 350 migrants have been deported to Venezuela, including some who had been detained in Guantanamo Bay. The Trump administration also flew over 200 Venezuelan migrants to a high-security prison in El Salvador despite a federal judge’s temporary block on deportations.
Madura denounced the flights and referred to the Venezuelans detained in El Salvador as “kidnapped.” Senator Rubio thanked President Bukele of El Salvador for accepting the migrants when Venezuela refused to do so. The resumption of deportation flights to Venezuela marks progress in the cooperation between the two countries on the issue of migration. The Trump administration did not immediately comment on the resumption of the flights, but officials have previously emphasized the importance of countries accepting their repatriated citizens.
The deal reached between the U.S. and Venezuela is seen as a positive step towards addressing the issue of deportation and reintegration of migrants. By resuming the flights, both countries are working towards ensuring the safe return of Venezuelan migrants while upholding their human rights. The cooperation between governments is critical in managing migration flows and ensuring the well-being of individuals being repatriated. As more deportations take place, it will be important to monitor the implementation of the agreement and any potential issues that may arise.
