The United States steps up deportation flights to Guatemala as a strategy to strengthen ties, drawing a spotlight on an alliance with a critical Latin American partner.
Key Takeaways
- Guatemala and the U.S. announce a 40% increase in deportation flights, chiefly for Guatemalan nationals.
- The U.S. plans extensive infrastructure projects in Guatemala, including ports and transportation networks.
- Guatemala continued its diplomatic ties with Taiwan amid increasing Chinese influence in Latin America.
- Military planes are utilized for deportation, sparking opposition from Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico.
Increased Deportation Flights
The United States will boost its deportation flights to Guatemala by 40%, according to the announcement made by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Guatemalan President Bernardo Arevalo. This endeavor underscores the ongoing efforts by both nations to fortify bilateral ties in the face of rising regional dynamics. The plan focuses on repatriating Guatemalan nationals and accepting deportees from other countries.
In 2024 alone, nearly 70,000 Guatemalans were returned from the U.S., averaging around 200 individuals daily. An escalating focus on resolving immigration challenges is evident as the U.S. utilizes C-17 military planes for these deportations, raising the cost per migrant compared to commercial flights.
🇺🇸🇬🇹 | BREAKING: Guatemala Strikes Deal with the United States in Taking Back Deportees Under New “Safe Third Country” Agreement
In a significant move following Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit, Guatemalan President Bernardo Arévalo has agreed to accept migrants from other… pic.twitter.com/TXIIJN5Ije
— Bienvenido (@bienvenido_us) February 5, 2025
Infrastructure and Diplomatic Strategies
Besides the uptick in deportations, Rubio confirmed a commitment to infrastructure investments in Guatemala, with ports and transportation enhancements front and center. These developments are part of an extensive trade-boosting initiative. The collaborative groundwork with Guatemalan authorities also aims at bolstering law enforcement cooperation, fighting all forms of transnational crime.
“The return of our migrants presents an opportunity not only for the state and the government, but to coordinate this as a national effort with the private sector, the tourism sector, infrastructure,” said Santiago Palomo, Arevalo’s press secretary.
This strategic approach resonates with the U.S.’s broader foreign policy objectives aimed at countering China’s growing influence in Latin America. Guatemalan diplomatic ties with Taiwan remain steadfast despite the pressure from Beijing, reinforcing a diplomatic stance in favor of Washington’s regional interests.
International Reactions and Further Actions
The use of military aircraft for deportations has faced backlash from countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico. Financial support from the U.S. will assist Guatemala in managing the logistical backload and ensuring dignified processes for migrants. Meanwhile, Rubio’s diplomatic agenda marks a significant Latin American visit focused on addressing illegal immigration into the United States on a broader spectrum.
“We have stated from the first moment that we maintain our diplomatic relationship with Taiwan,” stated Arevalo.
Guatemala’s President has confirmed the acceptance of various nationalities being deported, portraying a humanitarian approach to regional migration challenges. While these steps signal stronger partnerships, they also point to evolving geopolitics that require decisive strategies in balancing foreign influence.
