Venezuela and U.S. Reach Deal on Deportation Flights for Nationals

Venezuela has agreed to accept U.S. deportation flights for its nationals after previously suspending them. Venezuelan officials emphasize human rights in the repatriation process. Political tensions remain as deportations continue under allegations of gang affiliations without substantial evidence. Recent flights demonstrate evolving diplomatic relations amid a complicated migration landscape.

Venezuela has reached an agreement with the United States to resume deportation flights for its nationals, as reported by a Venezuelan official on social media. The decision follows the suspension of these flights by President Nicolás Maduro on March 8, in response to the U.S. Treasury Department’s withdrawal of Chevron’s oil export license.

Jorge Rodríguez, the President of Venezuela’s Assembly and Maduro’s chief negotiator with the U.S., announced that the repatriation process would begin with an initial flight scheduled for the following Sunday. He emphasized the importance of ensuring the return of Venezuelan migrants with the protection of their human rights.

Rodríguez also criticized the previous deportation of several hundred Venezuelans to a high-security prison in El Salvador by the Trump administration. He insisted, “Migrating is not a crime and we will not rest until we achieve the return of all those who require it.”

During a public event, President Maduro reaffirmed the agreement, stating, “We are resuming flights to rescue and release migrants from U.S. prisons.” He also held El Salvador’s President, Nayib Bukele, accountable for the welfare of deported Venezuelans, urging him to ensure their health and timely release.

Former President Trump had claimed that some deportees were affiliated with the Tren de Aragua gang, labeling them as an invading force. However, the Trump administration has provided no evidence substantiating these allegations. In fact, a federal judge temporarily halted deportations, yet flights continued after the ruling.

The Tren de Aragua, designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. Department of State, has roots in Venezuelan prisons and capitalized on the exodus of millions seeking asylum from Venezuela’s economic decline. Recent deportations under the Trump administration have increased dramatically, with about 350 individuals returned to Venezuela in recent weeks.

Venezuelan officials indicated that deportations included 238 men, with some individuals being designated as “enemy aliens” without sufficient evidence for their alleged affiliations. Reports also included cases of deportees, like a 26-year-old barber, who have no criminal records in the U.S. or Venezuela.

Despite prior refusals, Maduro’s government seems to comply with U.S. policies regarding deportations, especially given the recent diplomatic engagements. The complexity of the situation emphasizes the intertwining issues of human rights, migration, and diplomatic relations in the region.

The recent agreement between Venezuela and the United States to resume deportation flights marks a significant development in diplomatic relations amid ongoing tensions. It underscores the complexities surrounding migration, human rights, and political accountability. Venezuelan officials are advocating for the humane treatment and return of their nationals, while allegations regarding gang affiliations continue to complicate matters. Overall, the resurgence of these flights reflects shifting diplomatic dynamics that may have broader implications for migration policies in the region.

Original Source: www.cbsnews.com