Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned that Venezuela will face severe sanctions if it does not accept deported citizens from the U.S. This statement coincides with increased deportations amid the ongoing economic crisis in Venezuela and efforts to secure cooperative repatriation agreements with other countries.
On a recent statement, Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that Venezuela would confront “severe, and escalating sanctions” if it continues to refuse the repatriation of its citizens deported from the United States. This warning coincides with the Trump administration’s efforts to intensify the deportation of Venezuelans residing illegally in the U.S. while considering a temporary residency program that could jeopardize their legal status.
Many Venezuelans holding protected status have fled to the United States due to the severe economic crisis resulting from the authoritarian regime of President Nicolas Maduro. In his remarks on X, Rubio asserted, “Venezuela is obligated to accept its repatriated citizens from the U.S. This is not an issue for debate or negotiation.” He further stated that failure to accept deportation flights would result in increased sanctions.
Shortly before Rubio’s statement, Richard Grenell, a special envoy from the Trump administration, announced that the Maduro government had consented to the acceptance of repatriation flights after initially opposing them. Additionally, in February, President Trump revoked an oil export permit for Chevron due to the Venezuelan government’s failure to uphold commitments for fair electoral processes.
The Trump administration is also focused on the deportation of Venezuelan gang members, having recently transported 238 such individuals to a high-security prison in El Salvador, despite a temporary federal court injunction against deportations. Rubio expressed appreciation for El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele’s cooperation, stating that his country was willing to accept these deportees at a lower cost compared to U.S. prison expenses.
Rubio emphasized the necessity for Venezuela to accept its citizens, asserting, “I think it was a very helpful thing that El Salvador did for us” and highlighting a continued partnership with President Bukele.
In light of the potential for severe repercussions, it is imperative for Venezuela to accept the repatriation of its citizens deported from the United States. The Trump administration is intensifying its deportation efforts while addressing the challenges posed by the Maduro regime. Cooperation with nations like El Salvador proves vital in managing the migrant situation effectively.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
