Venezuela Resumes Repatriation Flights for Deportees from the U.S.
In a significant development, Venezuela has announced the resumption of repatriation flights for its nationals deported from the United States. This decision follows diplomatic negotiations between Venezuelan officials and the U.S. government.
Background of the Agreement
The agreement to reinstate these flights comes after Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro suspended them earlier this year in response to sanctions imposed on the Venezuelan oil sector, specifically targeting Chevron’s export license. Jorge Rodríguez, the president of Venezuela’s Assembly and Maduro’s lead negotiator, confirmed through social media that the first repatriation flight was scheduled for Sunday.
Human Rights Considerations
Rodríguez emphasized that the resumption of repatriation flights aims to ensure the protection of the human rights of returning Venezuelan citizens. “We have agreed with the U.S. government to resume the repatriation of Venezuelan migrants…to guarantee the return of our compatriots,” he stated.
Rodríguez also highlighted the need to address the fate of Venezuelans deported to El Salvador under the previous administration. He referred to accusations regarding the treatment of these individuals, asserting that migrating is not a crime and calling for the rescue of those held in El Salvador.
Details of the First Flight
U.S. officials confirmed the delivery of 199 deportees on the inaugural flight, which also reportedly included individuals suspected of affiliations with the Tren de Aragua gang. However, specific details regarding the number of gang members aboard and the criteria for their classification were not disclosed.
Comments from Venezuelan Leadership
During a public event, President Maduro reaffirmed the commitment to facilitate the return of migrants from U.S. custody. He called out the President of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, saying, “You guarantee their health and…have to hand them over and release them, because they are kidnapped.”
Controversy Surrounding Deportations
The Trump administration previously classified some deported Venezuelans as members of an invading force, labeling the Tren de Aragua gang as a foreign terrorist organization. Legal actions and public outcry followed the aggressive immigration policies, with some deportees alleging no prior criminal records. According to CBS News, among the deportees were individuals without any documented offenses in the U.S.
Increased Deportation Activity
Since the Trump administration took office, the pace of Venezuelan deportations has accelerated significantly, with hundreds being returned to their home country. Recent reports indicated that around 350 Venezuelans were sent back, including individuals held at Guantanamo Bay for extended periods.
The future of the repatriation agreement remains to be seen, as the dialogue between the U.S. and Venezuela continues to evolve in the context of broader geopolitical dynamics.
