Venezuela will resume repatriation of deported migrants from the U.S. due to a new agreement, following a suspension imposed after the U.S. withdrew Chevron’s oil export license. President Maduro and Jorge Rodríguez emphasized the importance of human rights and safety for returnees, amidst allegations related to gang involvement and increasing deportations since Trump’s presidency.

Venezuela has announced the resumption of repatriation flights for its nationals deported from the United States following a new agreement with the U.S. administration. This decision comes after Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro had previously suspended such flights on March 8, in response to the U.S. Treasury Department revoking Chevron’s license to export oil from Venezuela. Jorge Rodríguez, President of Venezuela’s National Assembly, confirmed through social media that the first repatriation flight was scheduled for Sunday.

Rodríguez emphasized that the agreement focuses on ensuring the safe return of Venezuelans while safeguarding their human rights. He highlighted an incident where approximately 250 Venezuelans were deported to a high-security prison in El Salvador under the Trump administration’s policies. “Migrating is not a crime and we will not rest until we achieve the return of all those who require it,” he asserted.

President Maduro affirmed the plan during a public gathering, stating, “We are resuming flights to rescue and release migrants from U.S. prisons.” He also called upon El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele to ensure the welfare of the deported individuals, stressing that they are being held against their will. President Trump had previously claimed that the deportees were associated with the Tren de Aragua gang, a designation that adds to the complexities surrounding their treatment.

Maduro’s government has generally rejected the return of deported immigrants from the U.S., despite an increase in such deportations since Trump took office. Recently, approximately 350 Venezuelans were sent back, among whom were nearly 180 who stayed at the U.S. naval base in Guantanamo Bay for up to 16 days. The Trump administration alleged that those in Guantanamo were members of the Tren de Aragua but has not provided substantial evidence to validate these claims.

The resumption of repatriation flights marks a significant development in U.S.-Venezuela relations, as the Venezuelan government seeks to ensure the return of its nationals with a focus on human rights. The context of deportations, allegations of gang affiliations, and the complexities of international diplomacy remain crucial factors in these proceedings. Both governments seem poised to navigate these challenges in light of the recent agreement.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com

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