The Trump administration is reportedly exploring options to deport migrants to third-party nations if their home countries refuse to accept them. Sources confirmed to NBC News that discussions are underway with countries like Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas, Panama, and Grenada as possible destinations for deportees.
It remains unclear whether these nations would allow migrants to live and work legally or under what terms the United States might pressure them diplomatically or economically to accept such agreements. Migrants from nations like Venezuela, Cuba, and China have long posed challenges for U.S. immigration officials, as federal court orders prohibit indefinite detention for those whose deportations cannot be carried out.
This move comes as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to fulfill his campaign promise of launching “the largest deportation operation in American history.” Trump had previously implemented a similar policy during his first term, sending asylum seekers to Guatemala until the COVID-19 pandemic halted the practice. That policy is currently under litigation in federal court, with opposition from groups like the ACLU.
In addition to these efforts, Trump is reportedly seeking cooperation from Mexico to accept non-Mexican migrants. However, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has stated her government’s priority is to receive Mexican citizens, emphasizing a desire to ensure deportees are sent to their countries of origin.
Karoline Leavitt, a spokesperson for the Trump transition team, reiterated the administration’s commitment to mass deportations. “President Trump was given a mandate by the American people to stop the invasion of illegal immigrants, secure the border, and deport dangerous criminals and terrorists that make our communities less safe. He will deliver,” Leavitt told NBC News.
The administration’s plan signals a renewed focus on immigration enforcement, with significant implications for migrants from nations reluctant to accept deported citizens and for the third-party countries potentially tasked with receiving them.
