In brief
On February 10, 2025, two Conviasa flights set out from Fort Bliss, Texas, carrying Venezuelan nationals back to their home country, marking a significant achievement for President Trump’s immigration agenda. This move is emblematic of Trump's promise to enforce extensive deportations of undocumented migrants, which has become a cornerstone of his administration. Following a historical rupture between the U.S. and Venezuela since 2019 under former President Trump's policies, the return of these deportees comes after a series of negotiations with Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who previously resisted accepting deported citizens.
The flights, managed by the state-owned airline Conviasa, departed Texas early in the morning and are scheduled to arrive in Caracas by evening, a procedural detail reported by Flight Aware. Trump’s advisor, Richard Grenell, played a pivotal role in facilitating this operation, as recent diplomacy led to the return of six Americans previously detained in Venezuela.The Venezuelan government has stated that it is prepared to investigate some individuals aboard the flights, specifically those identified as members of the Tren de Aragua, a criminal organization. Reports suggest that these individuals could face harsh legal repercussions once they arrive back in Venezuela. Moreover, Maduro, who is himself under investigation by U.S. authorities for alleged narcotrafficking and crimes against humanity, has publicly acknowledged the deportation program in light of new communications from the U.S. administration.As this development unfolds, it raises significant questions about the implications for the deportees and human rights concerns tied to returns to a politically volatile Venezuela.Julie Turkewitz is the Andes Bureau Chief for The Times, covering key issues across Latin America.
