Many migrants from Venezuela and Colombia, once aiming for asylum in the U.S., are now returning home due to changing immigration policies under President Trump. In February 2025, they boarded boats in Panama for Colombia, expressing their disillusionment after abandoning their hopes of reaching the United States. The return journey reflects financial pressures and dangers associated with the boat rides, as well as a desire to escape worsening conditions in Venezuela.

Migrants who once traversed the treacherous Darien Gap in pursuit of asylum in the United States are now returning home, mainly from Venezuela and Colombia. This trend has emerged in response to the immigration policies implemented during President Trump’s administration. On Sunday, February 23, 2025, groups of these migrants boarded boats in Puerto Cartí, Panama, en route back to Colombia after abandoning their hopes of reaching the U.S.

The migrants had previously faced a grueling journey through dense jungles, and many waited extensive periods in Mexico for opportunities to apply for asylum through a system that has since changed. Karla Castillo, a Venezuelan migrant, expressed her disillusionment, remarking, “When Trump arrived and eliminated the application (CBP One), all our hopes went up in smoke.”

Authorities describe this phenomenon as a “reverse flow” of migrants, as they leave Panama by boat instead of traveling northward. This journey used to be part of a lucrative smuggling route that charged migrants to ensure safety on their voyage. However, with the decline in demand for smuggling services due to reverse migration, costs for boat rides have increased, causing financial strains on those returning.

Many migrants expressed a desire not to return to Venezuela, especially in light of political unrest and violence following recent elections. For them, enduring hardships in other nations like Peru and Ecuador seems preferable. Celia Alcala, a returning migrant, stated emphatically, “There’s no way I’m going back to Venezuela.”

Despite the perilous nature of the boat journeys back to Colombia, which lack robust safety measures, many migrants feel they have no choice. Tragically, a recent capsizing incident left one child dead, raising alarm among those awaiting their turn to embark. Juan Luis Guedez, another migrant, shared his apprehension, hoping to reunite with family in Chile after being stuck for four months waiting for an asylum appointment.

The situation of Venezuelan and Colombian migrants reflects the complexities of migration in response to changing U.S. policies and domestic conditions. The return of these migrants, in light of recent political and economic struggles, underscores the ongoing crisis faced by those seeking better living conditions. As they navigate dangerous routes back to their home countries, their experiences highlight the dire consequences of strict immigration policies and the precarious realities for many displaced individuals.

Original Source: apnews.com

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