Venezuela to Resume U.S. Deportation Flights Amid Changing Diplomacy

Venezuela will resume deportation flights from the U.S. on Sunday after a diplomatic agreement, with the first flight scheduled for March 23. This follows a U.S. decision to allow Chevron to continue operations in Venezuela for an extended period, amidst pressures for democratic reforms from the Trump administration. The situation reflects a complex relationship and strategy regarding immigration and energy interests.

According to a high-ranking official, the United States will resume deportation flights to Venezuela on Sunday following an agreement between the two nations. Jorge Rodríguez, the chief negotiator, stated, “Migrating is not a crime, and we will not rest until we achieve the return of all those who require it,” announcing that the first flight is scheduled for March 23.

This announcement coincides with U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision to permit Chevron to maintain operations in Venezuela for an additional 30 days, extending a deadline initially set for April 3. The Venezuelan government, led by President Nicolás Maduro, had temporarily ceased acceptance of U.S. deportation flights in response to Chevron’s operational restrictions.

Maduro has a vested interest in ensuring Chevron’s continued operation, as it accounts for approximately one-fifth of Venezuela’s crude production and contributes significantly to the nation’s hard currency. Trump is intensifying pressure on Maduro to engage in democratic reforms while facilitating the return of Venezuelan migrants from the United States.

Geoff Ramsey, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council, remarked on the shifting U.S. strategy, stating, “At this point, it seems almost certain that the wind-down deadline for Chevron will be extended, and perhaps, in time, become permanent.” He further noted that the White House acknowledges the Maduro government’s durability, which necessitates pragmatic agreements for immigration and energy interests.

Despite earlier predictions by Trump envoy Ric Grenell that flights would commence on March 14, the upcoming flight on Sunday signifies the first resumption of deportation flights. This follows a recent incident in which over 200 Venezuelans were deported to El Salvador, where they faced accusations of gang affiliation. Additionally, Venezuela recently welcomed a flight carrying 311 migrants from Mexico due to a negotiated agreement with the Mexican government.

The resumption of U.S. deportation flights to Venezuela reflects a complex diplomatic arrangement aimed at addressing immigration issues while balancing energy interests. The ongoing negotiations highlight the Maduro administration’s significant hold over Venezuelan governance and the necessity for the U.S. to navigate its relationship with this authoritarian regime. The situation indicates a possible shift in U.S. tactics to maintain engagement rather than complete isolation.

Original Source: www.energyconnects.com