The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on the 1st that the United States is seeking additional third countries to accept immigrants it has expelled from its territory. The U.S. has already expelled immigrants to countries like Panama, Guatemala, and Costa Rica, and it is considering sending immigrants to countries in Asia, Eastern Europe, and Africa.
According to WSJ, the Donald Trump administration is trying to negotiate with countries such as Libya, Rwanda, Benin, Eswatini, Moldova, Mongolia, and Kosovo to accept immigrants expelled from the United States. Although a formal agreement is not expected to be signed, it is reported that the U.S. hopes these countries will accept expelled immigrants in exchange for financial aid or political benefits.
Earlier, the U.S. reached a similar agreement with Panama. The U.S. sent over 100 immigrants from the Middle East to Panama, and Panama has begun procedures to detain them and repatriate them to their home countries.
WSJ reported that the Trump administration is also working on an agreement designating South American countries as locations where immigrants can request asylum instead of going to the U.S. Officials involved in the agreement told WSJ that negotiations with Honduras are nearly finalized and discussions are ongoing with Costa Rica.
Meanwhile, President Trump has vowed to carry out the largest operation ever against illegal immigration since taking office, but he is not able to proceed at the anticipated speed due to the refusal of some countries to accept immigrants and court interventions. As a result, there is increasing pressure within the Trump administration to accelerate the expulsion of immigrants.
WSJ expressed concern that the third countries the U.S. is exploring for accepting immigrants, like Libya and Rwanda, are nations where serious human rights violations are being raised.