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Venezuela Resumes Repatriation Flights for Citizens in U.S. and El Salvador Prisons

Venezuela has decided to resume repatriation flights for citizens deported from the U.S. after a brief suspension. Officials highlighted the inhumane conditions of Venezuelans held in El Salvador’s mega-prison. Jorge Rodríguez confirmed that the first flight will take place soon, asserting that migrating is not a crime and committing to safeguard the rights of deportees.

Venezuela has announced it will resume repatriation flights for its citizens deported from the United States. This decision, made public on March 23, 2023, reverses President Nicolás Maduro’s previous halt to these flights earlier in the month due to oil export issues. The first flight under the renewed arrangement is scheduled for Sunday, and officials note that 238 Venezuelans currently reside in El Salvador’s mega-prison, a situation they have described as inhumane.

Jorge Rodríguez, the president of Venezuela’s Assembly, confirmed the resumption of repatriation efforts, asserting that “migrating is not a crime.” He expressed the Venezuelan government’s dedication to reclaiming its citizens and addressing the imprisonment of migrants in El Salvador, which a Dataviva survey revealed 87% of Venezuelans view as a human rights violation. Rodríguez further emphasized the importance of these flights for the welfare of the migrants.

The United States has previously deported around 250 Venezuelans, alleging links to the Tren de Aragua gang but provided scant evidence to substantiate these claims. In light of these allegations, and the increased deportations under the Trump administration, the Maduro administration has responded by reiterating its commitment to protecting the rights of its returning nationals.

Amidst international tensions, President Maduro noted that while some deportees are accused of crimes, all returning citizens will have their human rights safeguarded. This is particularly relevant given the accusations that the U.S. government’s actions are politically motivated rather than based on solid allegations.

The Trump administration’s strategy involved deporting Venezuelans under the Alien Enemies Act, with claims that they posed a threat to national security. However, judicial challenges highlighted the controversial nature of these deportations, questioning the legality of the processes involved. Law officials recognized potential dangers arising from the administration’s approach and its implications for civil rights.

In summary, Venezuela’s decision to resume repatriation flights for its citizens reflects a significant reversal in policy and a commitment to addressing the humanitarian concerns of its nationals imprisoned abroad. The ongoing challenges related to deportations underscore the complexities of international immigration policies and humanitarian rights. As the situation evolves, the focus remains on ensuring the dignity and protection of returnees.

Original Source: san.com

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