Two Venezuelan planes have transported deported citizens from the U.S. back to Venezuela, signaling a possible improvement in diplomatic relations. The flights, overseen by Richard Grennell, reflect continued efforts to address immigration and deportation issues. The Venezuelan government responded to accusations regarding gang members among its deportees, emphasizing the hardworking nature of its citizens. This development follows recent agreements surrounding immigration enforcement in the Americas.

On Monday, two planes from Venezuela returned home after transporting deported citizens from the United States, indicating a potential thaw in relations between the two countries. The flights, operated by Venezuelan airline Conviasa, reflect efforts by the Trump administration to prompt more nations to accept their citizens back. While specific details regarding the number of deportees or the flight routes were not disclosed, both governments confirmed the operation.

The White House commented that these flights were overseen by Richard Grennell, a senior advisor to President Trump, who recently visited Venezuela. This development marks a return to deportation flights that had been suspended for several years, with a brief restart under the Biden administration in October 2023, during which approximately 130 Venezuelans were transported back to their home country.

In light of these flights, the Venezuelan government issued a statement disputing claims related to the Tren de Aragua gang allegedly having members in the U.S., describing such narratives as “ill-intentioned” and “false.” They emphasized that the majority of Venezuelan immigrants are hardworking individuals, countering the stigma associated with migration from their country.

These flights also come shortly after the U.S. conducted immigration flights to Guantanamo Bay and following agreements between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Central American nations about the repatriation of non-citizens. Additionally, legal challenges were raised concerning the transfer of Venezuelan men to Guantanamo, highlighting ongoing legal complexities surrounding immigration enforcement.

President Trump remarked that the Maduro government would accept all Venezuelan nationals unlawfully residing in the United States, including those linked to gang activities, while also agreeing to cover transportation costs. This initiative coincided with the release of six Americans held in Venezuela.

The recent return of deported Venezuelans on flights from the U.S. suggests a potential improvement in diplomatic relations between the two nations. The operation underscores a broader strategy by the Trump administration to collaborate with other countries on immigration policies. Furthermore, Venezuela’s response highlights its efforts to reshape perceptions regarding its immigrants, emphasizing their positive contributions amidst stigmatization.

Original Source: www.independent.co.uk

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