US Quietly Deporting Mexican Migrants to Guatemala and Honduras, Angering Mexico
The Trump administration has been quietly sending some Mexican migrants deported from the United States to Guatemala and Honduras, rather than returning them to Mexico, according to two Department of Homeland Security officials who spoke with CBS News.
The officials said the flights have taken place for months and involved hundreds of Mexican citizens, although the precise number was not immediately clear. They said one purpose is deterrence: sending some deportees farther from the U.S.-Mexico border to make future unauthorized crossings more difficult.
The policy has angered Mexico because the country has historically accepted the return of its nationals. Mexico’s Foreign Ministry told CBS News that it “rejects the deportation of Mexican nationals to third countries” and has “no such agreement in place.” The ministry also said Mexico is working to ensure the safe and dignified return of its citizens.
The development is significant because third-country deportations have generally been associated with situations in which a migrant’s home country refuses or limits removals. Mexico, by contrast, accepts deportations of its citizens. A DHS spokesperson said the administration is using “all lawful options” to carry out its promised deportation campaign.
For families, immigrants, and advocates, the report raises practical questions about notification, access to legal counsel, screening, and how deportees can reach their home communities. People directly affected should seek advice from a qualified immigration attorney or a trusted legal-aid organization before signing documents or making travel arrangements.
Brownstone Worldwide will continue following official statements from the United States, Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras. How should governments balance immigration enforcement with transparency, due process, and the safe return of people to their own countries?
