Venezuela to Resume Repatriation Flights for U.S. Migrants Amid Tensions

Venezuela will resume repatriation flights for U.S. migrants, confirmed by President Nicolás Maduro amidst ongoing tensions with the U.S. following the revocation of Chevron’s oil export license. The deal aligns with Trump’s mass deportation goals as Venezuelan officials emphasize the protection of human rights and critique El Salvador’s handling of deportees.

Venezuela has announced an agreement to resume repatriation flights for migrants who were illegally residing in the United States. This was revealed by senior officials from Venezuela and confirmed by President Nicolás Maduro during a televised address. The timing is significant as it coincides with ongoing tensions between Venezuela and the United States following the revocation of Chevron’s oil export license by the U.S. Treasury Department, leading to a suspension of deportation flights back in March.

The Trump administration had recently transported over 200 individuals suspected of being part of the Venezuelan Tren de Aragua gang to a prison in El Salvador, raising concerns about their due process rights. As part of his 2024 campaign, Donald Trump aims to implement mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, indicating that this deal aligns with his objectives. Jorge Rodríguez, president of Venezuela’s National Assembly, confirmed the resumption of flights via social media, emphasizing the commitment to safeguarding human rights during the repatriation process.

In his address, Maduro reiterated that the agreement would facilitate the “rescue and release” of migrants from U.S. incarceration, while simultaneously criticizing Nayib Bukele, the president of El Salvador, for his role in the deportation of alleged gang members. Venezuelan officials disputed claims that those sent to El Salvador were affiliated with the Tren de Aragua gang. The Trump administration faces accusations of disregarding a ruling from U.S. District Judge James Boasberg that halted expedited deportations of Venezuelan migrants accused of gang affiliation under an old law.

By late March, Bukele referenced the ruling in a social media post, seemingly mocking the late intervention. Rodriguez highlighted, “Migrating is not a crime, and we will not rest until all those who want to return are home,” emphasizing the importance of protecting the rights of returnees. Following the agreement, flights from the United States to Venezuela are anticipated to begin shortly, with the administration expected to clarify compliance with Boasberg’s legal ruling by March 25.

The agreement signifies a notable development in U.S.-Venezuelan relations, particularly concerning the repatriation of illegal migrants. With tensions remaining high, the outlined flights aim to address humanitarian concerns while aligning with the Trump administration’s mass deportation ambitions. This situation underscores the complex interplay of international law, human rights, and political maneuvering in the context of migration policy.

Original Source: www.newsweek.com