Mexico denies US request for military aircrafts to deport migrants
U.S. Air Forces C-17 military plane (AFP Photo)
Mexico has refused a request from U.S. President Donald Trump‘s administration to allow a U.S. military aircraft to land in the country to deport migrants. This decision came after the U.S. carried out two similar deportation flights to Guatemala but was denied permission to land a C-17 transport aircraft in Mexico.
Why it matters
This move emphasizes ongoing tensions between the U.S. and Mexico, particularly regarding immigration policies and deportation practices. Mexico’s refusal to accept a U.S. military aircraft underscores the sensitive nature of these relations, especially in the context of Trump’s re-launching of the “Remain in Mexico” policy. The decision could also have broader implications for the handling of migration issues in the region.
Details
- U.S. deportation flights: The U.S. military carried out two flights to Guatemala on Friday, each carrying approximately 80 migrants.
- Mexico denies landing request: The request for a C-17 transport aircraft to land in Mexico was denied, preventing the U.S. from moving forward with its planned deportation.
- Mexico’s stance: Mexico’s Foreign Ministry issued a statement saying it maintains a “very great relationship” with the U.S. but will only accept the arrival of Mexican nationals for repatriation.
- U.S. military response: The U.S. military has been involved in deportation efforts as part of Trump’s national emergency declaration. This includes flights to deport over 5,000 immigrants from U.S. facilities in Texas and California.
Closer look
- Remain in Mexico policy: The reintroduction of this policy requires asylum-seekers to wait in Mexico until their U.S. immigration cases are resolved. President Claudia Sheinbaum has stated that Mexico has not agreed to this policy in its current form.
- National emergency: Trump has declared a national emergency along the U.S.-Mexico border, deploying 1,500 additional U.S. troops and ordering an additional 25% tariff on Mexican goods, effective February.
- Political divides: Sheinbaum has expressed support for Mexican nationals being returned but opposes mass deportations, acknowledging the vital role Mexican immigrants play in the U.S. economy.
