Venezuela, US Agree to Resume Migrant Repatriation Flights March 23

Venezuela has agreed to resume deportation flights from the United States following an earlier suspension due to diplomatic tensions. The first flight is scheduled for March 23, and Venezuelan officials emphasized that migrating is not a crime, vowing to ensure the safe return of their citizens. This decision comes after the U.S. deported 238 Venezuelans linked to the Tren de Aragua gang, which has drawn criticism from Caracas. The Venezuelan government, led by top negotiator Jorge Rodriguez, highlighted their commitment to protect the human rights of returning migrants. Since February, approximately 900 Venezuelans have been repatriated, with the current agreement marking a significant step in U.S.-Venezuela relations, which have been strained since 2019. The agreement also follows the revocation of Chevron's operating permission in Venezuela by the Trump administration, signaling ongoing economic and diplomatic challenges for the country.