One week after President Donald Trump’s inauguration, immigration remains a key priority for his administration. Deportations are underway, with new agreements made with several countries to send migrants illegally in the U.S. back to Colombia and China.
Discussions are also ongoing for a broader arrangement with El Salvador. The country could allow the U.S. to deport migrants from various countries of origin to El Salvador, a small nation aligned with Trump’s immigration crackdown policies.
China pledges to accept deportations
China has pledged to accept undocumented Chinese citizens back to their homeland. This followed a similar decision made by Colombia’s president on Sunday, Jan. 26.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said on Monday, Jan. 27, that the Chinese government would accept U.S. deportation flights for individuals confirmed as Chinese nationals who crossed illegally into the U.S.
According to Department of Homeland Security records, China accepted four charter removal flights from the Biden administration in the past six months. The spokeswoman added that “the Chinese government firmly opposes any form of illegal migration.” The statement signals alignment between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on one of Trump’s first policies regarding China.
Colombia reverses deportation stance after U.S. pressure
The response from China follows Colombia’s reversal after initially denying two U.S. military planes carrying Colombian migrants. The planes were forced to turn back as Colombia’s president stated that deportations “should be carried out with dignity and respect.”
In response, Trump announced 25% tariffs on Colombian goods. Trump also revoked visas for Colombian officials while suspending the issuance of new visas.
Colombia’s president later agreed to accept deportation flights. The Trump administration said the tariffs would not be implemented. However, they would remain “in reserve” should Colombia fail to honor the agreement.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the events “make clear to the world that America is respected again.”
Possible deal with El Salvador to accept migrants from other countries
A CBS report on Sunday suggested that a deal is brewing between the U.S. and El Salvador. The deal would allow the U.S. to deport migrants there. That includes migrants from other countries like Venezuela.
The plan, known as a “Safe Third Country Agreement,” would allow non-Salvadoran migrant flights to El Salvador. This would block asylum requests to the U.S. and instruct migrants to seek asylum in El Salvador instead.
El Salvador’s president, Nayib Bukele, is seen as an ally of Trump. The two spoke by phone on Thursday about immigration.
Bukele’s government has implemented its own crackdown on illegal immigration and gangs through a mass incarceration campaign. Under the reported plan, Trump is also seeking to deport suspected members of the Tren de Aragua gang in the U.S. to El Salvador. Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans to visit El Salvador in early February as part of a Latin American trip.
Increased border enforcement amid deportation push
While international deportation agreements continue to be made, the U.S. has also increased its presence on the border. The U.S. increased its use of military planes and personnel in its border enforcement efforts during the first week of the new administration.
