Federal Judge Blocks Trump's Deportation of Venezuelan Nationals Under Wartime Law

A federal judge has temporarily blocked President Donald Trump's attempt to deport alleged members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua under the Alien Enemies Act, a law typically reserved for wartime scenarios. Judge James Boasberg ruled that the Act does not apply to the situation, describing the terms used by Trump, such as 'invasion,' as pertaining to actions by nations rather than gangs. The deportation effort was part of Trump's response to what he characterized as an 'invasion' of the United States by this criminal organization, which has been linked to various crimes including kidnapping and extortion. This legal challenge highlights concerns from civil rights advocates who argue that the use of such wartime powers for immigration enforcement is unjustified. The restraining order blocks deportations for 14 days while the legal proceedings continue, reflecting ongoing tensions around immigration policy in the U.S. Despite claims of dismantling the gang by Venezuela's government, reports indicate that law enforcement in multiple countries continues to detain its members.