Trump Announces Venezuela’s Agreement to Accept Deported Migrants, Including Members of Tren de Aragua Gang
In a notable development in U.S.-Venezuela relations, former President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that Venezuela has agreed to accept the return of “all venezuelan illegal immigrants who were camping in the United States.” This proclamation comes amid ongoing efforts by the Trump management to implement a robust anti-immigrant policy, including mass deportations.
Trump’s statement, shared on the Truth Network, highlighted that among the deportees would be members of the notorious Tren de Aragua gang, a Venezuelan-origin mafia that has expanded its influence across the region. “We are in the process of eliminating a record number of illegal immigrants from all countries,and all countries have agreed to accept these illegal return immigrants. In addition, record amounts of our country are being eliminated,” Trump declared.
the announcement follows a high-profile visit to Caracas by Richard Grenell, Trump’s envoy, who met with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to negotiate the terms of the deportation agreement. Grenell’s mission also included securing the release of Americans accused of conspiracy in Venezuela. This objective was partially achieved on Friday when six prisoners boarded Grenell’s return flight to Washington.
Despite Trump’s claims, the Venezuelan government has yet to officially confirm the agreement. Following the meeting between Maduro and Grenell, Venezuelan officials described the discussions as part of a “zero agenda” of negotiations, signaling a fresh start in bilateral relations.Maduro, who recently began his third term—a victory contested by much of the international community—expressed optimism about the talks.“We have reached some agreements, and as they are fulfilled, new issues will be opened. We have taken a frist step, hopefully it can be sustained,” Maduro stated.the Venezuelan president also announced plans to implement a new disciplinary order in the country’s prisons, with support from evangelical churches engaged in social work. This initiative aims to dismantle the “Pranato,” a term referring to the control exercised by criminal leaders, or “pranes,” within Venezuelan prisons. Maduro’s reference to achieving “pran zero” appears to be a veiled acknowledgment of the Tren de Aragua gang, which originated in the Tocorón prison a decade ago.Despite a 2023 military operation to dismantle the gang, its leaders remain at large.
This is not the first time Venezuela has engaged in deportation agreements with the U.S. During the Biden administration, similar arrangements were made, including the exchange of American prisoners for Colombian businessman Álex Saab, a key ally of Maduro. Deportation flights were also initiated using Conviasa, Venezuela’s state airline, despite U.S. sanctions against it.
the latest developments underscore the complexities of U.S.-Venezuela relations, particularly in the context of immigration and security. As both nations navigate this new chapter, the outcomes of these agreements will likely have far-reaching implications for regional stability and the lives of thousands of migrants.
| Key Points | Details |
|—————–|————-|
| announcement | Trump declares Venezuela will accept deported migrants, including tren de Aragua members. |
| Envoy’s Visit | Richard Grenell meets Maduro to negotiate deportation terms and secure release of Americans. |
| Maduro’s Response | Venezuelan government promotes a “zero agenda” of negotiations but has not confirmed the agreement. |
| prison Reform | Maduro announces new disciplinary measures in Venezuelan prisons to combat criminal control. |
| Historical Context | Previous deportation agreements were made under the Biden administration, including prisoner exchanges. |
As the situation unfolds, the international community will be closely watching how these agreements are implemented and their impact on both nations.U.S. Suspends Oil Licenses as Venezuela Halts Deportation Flights Amid Electoral Tensions
In a dramatic escalation of tensions between Venezuela and the United States, the Biden administration has suspended the renewal of oil licenses in response to the Venezuelan government’s systematic blockade of opposition electoral initiatives. this move comes after the disqualification of prominent opposition candidate María Corina Machado, a decision that has drawn widespread criticism.
The suspension of oil licenses marks a significant shift in U.S. policy toward Venezuela, which had previously shown signs of easing sanctions in exchange for democratic reforms. According to reports, the U.S. action was triggered by Barbados’s commitments to uphold electoral integrity, which clashed with the Venezuelan government’s efforts to stifle opposition voices.
In retaliation, Venezuela has paralyzed all flights carrying deported venezuelans, a move that underscores the deepening rift between the two nations. This decision has left hundreds of Venezuelan migrants stranded, further complicating an already dire humanitarian situation.
The Disqualification of María Corina Machado
The disqualification of María Corina Machado, a leading opposition figure, has been a focal point of the crisis. Machado, a vocal critic of President Nicolás Maduro’s administration, was barred from participating in the upcoming elections, a move widely seen as an attempt to consolidate power.
The U.S. has condemned this action, with officials stating that it undermines the principles of free and fair elections.“The disqualification of María Corina Machado is a blatant attack on democracy,” a State Department spokesperson said.
Impact on Oil and Migration
The suspension of oil licenses is expected to have significant economic repercussions for Venezuela, which relies heavily on oil exports. The U.S. had previously granted licenses to allow limited oil transactions, but this latest move signals a return to a more hardline approach.
Simultaneously occurring, the paralysis of deportation flights has created a logistical nightmare for migrants and their families. Many Venezuelans deported from the U.S. and other countries are now unable to return home, exacerbating the challenges faced by the Venezuelan diaspora.
Key Developments at a Glance
| Event | Details |
|————————————|—————————————————————————–|
| U.S. Suspends Oil Licenses | Response to Venezuela’s electoral blockade and Machado’s disqualification. |
| venezuela Halts Deportation Flights| Retaliation against U.S. action, leaving migrants stranded. |
| Disqualification of Machado | Opposition candidate barred from elections, sparking international outcry. |
What’s Next?
As tensions continue to rise, the international community is closely watching for further developments. The U.S. has called on Venezuela to reverse its decision on Machado’s disqualification and to ensure free and fair elections.
For now, the suspension of oil licenses and the halt of deportation flights remain key points of contention, with both sides showing no signs of backing down.
Stay informed about the latest developments in Latin America by subscribing to the Newsletter of El País América.