The U.S. government has leveled accusations against Nicolás Maduro's regime, claiming it has misled the public about the execution of repatriation flights for Venezuelan citizens deported from the United States. In a social media statement, the State Department's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs asserted that these flights, which were purportedly to occur via Mexico, are not taking place and that Caracas's assertions to the contrary are untrue.
"As expected, Nicolás Maduro and his cohorts continue to lie. Despite media reports, repatriation flights to Venezuela through Mexico are not happening today," the official statement declared. Washington insisted that the Venezuelan regime cease its "disinformation" campaign and ensure regular and consistent flights to receive its deported citizens.
On Wednesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated that Venezuela is obligated to accept the repatriation of its citizens, emphasizing that this is non-negotiable and does not warrant any reward. He further cautioned that if Maduro's government fails to permit the continuous flow of deportation flights without further excuses or delays, the U.S. will impose new and stringent sanctions.
In February, former President Donald Trump announced that Venezuela had agreed to accept all Venezuelan migrants in the U.S. who are in irregular situations, including alleged members of the criminal gang "Tren de Aragua." As part of the agreement, Caracas committed to providing transportation to facilitate the repatriation of its citizens. However, according to U.S. statements, Maduro's government has not honored this commitment.
Last weekend, the chief of U.S. diplomacy reported that under the Enemy Aliens Act, over 250 individuals accused of belonging to "Tren de Aragua" were deported to El Salvador. In response, Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele offered to imprison the deported Venezuelans as part of his tough stance against organized crime.
The tension between Washington and Caracas continues to escalate, with the looming threat of further sanctions should Maduro's government fail to comply with the reception of deported Venezuelan migrants from the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions on U.S.-Venezuela Repatriation Flights
What is the U.S. accusing Nicolás Maduro of?
The U.S. is accusing Nicolás Maduro of misleading the public about the occurrence of repatriation flights for Venezuelans deported from the U.S.
What action has Washington demanded from the Venezuelan regime?
Washington has demanded that the Venezuelan regime stop spreading disinformation and ensure regular flights to receive deported citizens.
What could happen if Venezuela does not comply with U.S. demands?
If Venezuela does not comply, the U.S. has threatened to impose new and severe sanctions on Maduro's government.