Venezuela and US to Resume Deportation Flights This Sunday

Venezuela’s deportation flights from the U.S. will resume on Sunday as a result of a new agreement, according to official Jorge Rodríguez. This follows U.S. considerations for Chevron’s operations amid strained relations. Analysts note the Maduro administration’s resilience, implying a need for diplomatic engagement for broader agreements. The first flight follows previous deportations to El Salvador and a recent repatriation of migrants from Mexico.

Deportation flights from the United States to Venezuela will recommence on Sunday, following an agreement between the two nations, as announced by Venezuelan official Jorge Rodríguez. He stated, “Migrating is not a crime and we will not rest until we achieve the return of all those who require it,” indicating that the first flight is scheduled for March 23.

This announcement coincides with U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration considering an extension for Chevron to continue its operations in Venezuela, at least thirty days beyond a previously set deadline of April 3. The Venezuelan government had previously halted the acceptance of U.S. deportation flights in response to actions against Chevron.

President Nicolás Maduro is keen on maintaining Chevron’s operations in Venezuela, as the company is responsible for approximately twenty percent of the nation’s crude output and contributes significantly to its economy. Trump, on the other hand, has escalated pressure on Maduro to engage in democratic reforms and to facilitate the repatriation of Venezuelans who migrated to the United States.

Geoff Ramsey from the Atlantic Council noted that the Biden administration seems to recognize that the Maduro administration is resilient and unlikely to be displaced soon. He stated, “If Washington wants to advance certain immigration and energy interests, it needs to reach some basic agreements with the authoritarian government in Caracas.”

Initially, it was suggested that flights would resume on March 14; however, the first flight is now set to occur on Sunday. This comes after the U.S. deported over 200 Venezuelans to a prison in El Salvador last week amid allegations of gang affiliations. Additionally, Venezuela recently received a flight bringing back 311 migrants from Mexico after successfully negotiating with the Mexican government.

In conclusion, the resumption of U.S. deportation flights to Venezuela marks a significant development in the diplomatic relations between the two nations. This move follows ongoing negotiations involving Chevron’s operations in Venezuela, which are crucial for the country’s economy. With President Trump applying pressure for reforms, it becomes increasingly important for both countries to navigate their complex relationship effectively.

Original Source: www.energyconnects.com