Venezuela to Reopen Repatriation Flights for Deportees After U.S. Agreement

Venezuela will begin accepting repatriation flights from the U.S. after an agreement was reached, resuming a service suspended by President Maduro. Jorge Rodríguez announced that initial flights will occur soon, underlining the protection of human rights in the repatriation process. The agreement follows contentious deportations previously enacted by the Trump administration, framed by claims of gang affiliation without solid evidence.

Venezuela will resume accepting repatriation flights from the United States for its deported nationals following a recent agreement with the U.S. government. This announcement was made by Jorge Rodríguez, the president of Venezuela’s Assembly, indicating that initial repatriation flights would commence as early as Sunday. The decision comes after Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro had previously suspended these flights amid escalating tensions regarding oil export regulations by the U.S.

Rodríguez emphasized that the agreement aims to ensure the humane return of Venezuelan migrants, protecting their human rights upon repatriation. He also referenced past incidents where the Trump administration deported approximately 250 Venezuelans to a high-security facility in El Salvador, which drew considerable international concern regarding their safety and rights.

Commenting on the matter, Rodríguez remarked, “Migrating is not a crime, and we will not rest until we achieve the return of all those who require it.”

It is noteworthy that President Trump had characterized the deported individuals as members of the Tren de Aragua gang, which the U.S. Department of State has labeled a foreign terrorist organization. These claims, however, have not been substantiated with evidence from the Trump administration regarding any criminal activity committed by these individuals in the U.S.

Under Trump’s leadership, deportations of Venezuelan nationals increased significantly, with recent flights resulting in about 350 deportees, including individuals who reportedly spent time at the U.S. naval base in Guantanamo Bay. The Trump administration has alleged that many of these detainees are affiliated with Tren de Aragua, though the lack of evidence raises questions about the justification for their deportation.

In conclusion, Venezuela’s agreement with the United States to resume repatriation flights for deported nationals marks a significant development in diplomatic relations. Despite past controversies surrounding the deportation of Venezuelans, officials like Jorge Rodríguez emphasize the necessity of safeguarding human rights. The situation highlights the complex dynamics between migration, national security, and human rights in the context of U.S.-Venezuelan relations.

Original Source: www.mercurynews.com