The Trump administration has started deporting over 100 migrants from Asian countries to Panama. This strategy aims to streamline the process of removing undocumented immigrants whose home countries are reluctant to accept them. Confined in a local hotel, these individuals will be processed for repatriation, reflecting changes in U.S. immigration policy post-Secretary Rubio’s visit to Panama.
The Trump administration has initiated a deportation effort by sending migrants from various Asian countries to Panama. This strategy is intended to facilitate expedited removals of undocumented immigrants from the U.S. whose home countries are not cooperating with repatriation. On a recent military flight from California, the government deported over 100 migrants from nations such as Afghanistan, China, Pakistan, and Uzbekistan, marking a significant operational shift in U.S. immigration policy.
Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino confirmed that the 119 deported individuals arrived via a U.S. Air Force flight and were temporarily accommodated in a local hotel. Subsequently, they will be relocated to a shelter in Darién, eastern Panama, where the International Organization for Migration will manage their repatriation process. President Mulino expressed hope for a swift return of these migrants to their countries of origin.
This operation follows Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s recent visit to Panama, during which President Trump pressed for tighter control over the Panama Canal, hinting at the geopolitical leverage in negotiations. This development suggests a proactive and multi-faceted approach to address immigration challenges, particularly involving nations that present barriers to migrant returns.
The U.S. has begun deporting migrants from Asia to Panama as part of a new approach to accelerate removals of individuals from countries uncooperative with their return. The deployment of these migrants occurred following diplomatic engagements with Panama, highlighting broader strategies in managing migration and international relations. The situation raises implications for future U.S. immigration policy and relationships with Asian countries.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
