One hundred and twenty-eight Cuban migrants were deported from the United States to Cuba on December 18th, arriving at the José Martí International Airport in Havana, according to a statement from Cuba’s Ministry of the Interior (MININT) published on Facebook.
Recent Deportations
The group consisted of 106 men, 21 women, and one minor. MININT stated the return occurred “in compliance with existing bilateral migration agreements” between the two countries. Authorities also reported that one individual was detained upon return, as they were on conditional release at the time of their departure from Cuba.
This deportation follows a November 20th flight that returned 139 Cuban migrants – 109 men and 30 women – and a November 6th deportation of 232 citizens, the largest single operation since the flights resumed. According to data cited by Café Fuerte, through November, President Trump had overseen the deportation of 4,755 Cuban citizens.
MININT indicated that an additional six migrants, intercepted at sea while attempting to leave Cuba illegally, are scheduled for return on Friday morning. If completed, this would bring the total number of Cubans returned to 1,669. The ministry also noted that some Cuban citizens are being deported to third countries when their entry is not accepted by the Cuban government.
Policy and Risk
Cuban authorities reiterated their support for “regular, safe, and orderly” migration, while warning of the dangers associated with illegal departures by sea and other means. The statement emphasized that such journeys pose a risk to the lives of those who undertake them.
No details were provided regarding the conditions of the returned migrants upon arrival or their immediate destination within Cuba, beyond the detention of the individual who violated the terms of their conditional release.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the basis for these deportations?
The deportations are carried out “in compliance with existing bilateral migration agreements” between the United States and Cuba, according to the MININT statement.
How does the current administration’s deportation record compare to previous presidents?
Through November, President Trump had overseen the deportation of 4,755 Cuban citizens, significantly more than his predecessors: Joe Biden (978), Barack Obama (341), and George W. Bush (416).
Are there alternative outcomes for Cuban migrants attempting to reach the United States?
In addition to direct deportation to Cuba, some Cuban citizens whose entry is not accepted by the Cuban government are being deported to third countries, a practice that has increased in recent years.
As deportations continue, what impact will these returns have on migration patterns and the choices made by those seeking to leave Cuba?
