Venezuela has agreed to resume deportation flights from the U.S. in response to pressure from President Trump, aimed at cracking down on illegal immigration. Richard Grenell announced the flights will resume after Maduro’s previous threats to halt them. The agreement is expected to improve deportation operations and address concerns regarding gang-related criminal activity.
In response to pressure from the Trump administration, Venezuela has agreed to resume deportation flights from the United States. Richard Grenell, a special envoy to President Trump, announced this development, which comes amidst a crackdown on illegal immigration that has seen U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) make over 32,000 arrests nationwide.
The Venezuelan government, under Nicolás Maduro, had previously threatened to suspend deportation flights following Trump’s revocation of a special license that permitted Chevron’s operations in Venezuela. Grenell confirmed the resumption of deportation flights effective Friday, emphasizing the importance of this agreement in addressing illegal immigration.
The return of deportation flights is particularly significant as Venezuela is home to the Tren de Aragua, a dangerous gang whose members are targets for deportation. John Fabbricatore of the Heritage Foundation remarked that Venezuela’s cooperation would enhance the administration’s deportation process, leading to more efficient removals and reduced detention times.
During his presidency, Trump enacted a stringent sanctions policy against Maduro’s government, primarily focusing on the oil industry. Following the retraction of concessions made to Venezuela under President Biden, Trump indicated his administration’s intention to terminate the previous agreement that allowed Maduro to engage in modified oil transactions.
Furthermore, Grenell visited Caracas earlier this year and successfully facilitated the release of six American citizens detained by the Venezuelan government on espionage charges. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stated that nine Americans remain held under questionable conditions by the Maduro regime.
The Venezuelan government has agreed to resume deportation flights at the urging of the Trump administration, marking a notable shift in diplomatic relations. This agreement is expected to enhance the efficiency of deportation operations and address illegal immigration issues, particularly concerning the Tren de Aragua gang. The Trump administration continues to apply pressure on Maduro’s regime, reaffirming its approach to sanctions and immigration policies.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com