US deportation flights to Venezuela resumed as the first aircraft carrying over 200 Venezuelan migrants landed near Caracas on Monday. After a brief hiatus brought on by tense ties between the two countries, repatriation attempts have now resumed.
Flight Details and Arrival
- The flight initially departed from the US and made a stop in Honduras for a plane transfer.
- Upon arrival, video footage showed deportees disembarking, with some celebrating and others visibly emotional.
- The US Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs confirmed the flight and thanked Honduran President Castro for her cooperation in facilitating the transfer.
Why Were the Flights Pausing?
US deportation flights to Venezuela paused earlier this year after the Trump administration revoked Chevron’s Venezuelan operating license. The harsh measures taken by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro further damaged diplomatic relations.
Outrage and Controversy
Flights have resumed in the midst of popular indignation over the deportation of 238 Venezuelans to El Salvador. The US alleged links between the migrants and the Tren de Aragua criminal group. However, family members have contested these claims, insisting their relatives had no criminal connections.
Future Repatriation Plans
Maduro has now instructed his administration to increase the number of flights for repatriating Venezuelan migrants. The US anticipates a steady flow of deportation flights moving forward.
Source: CNN
