Mexico Refuses U.S. Deportation Flight

Mexico blocked a U.S. military deportation flight from landing due to a paperwork issue and miscommunication with the U.S. Defence Department on Thursday, which delayed plans to return illegal immigrants. While two other flights to Guatemala went ahead, the flight headed for Mexico was stopped.

Mexico’s president, Claudia Sheinbaum, reaffirmed that her country has not agreed to accept non-Mexican asylum seekers, despite the U.S. reinstating the “Remain in Mexico” program.

In a statement, Mexico’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said, “Mexico has a very good relationship with the United States government, and we cooperate with respect for our sovereignty on a wide range of issues, including migration.” It added, “When it comes to repatriations, we will always welcome the arrival of Mexicans to our territory with open arms. Mexico embraces you.”

Before taking office, President Trump vowed to carry out mass deportations, focusing first on criminal immigrants, and to enforce stricter immigration rules and checks. He also sent 1,500 active-duty troops to the southern border to increase military presence there.