New York (Web Desk): The Trump administration has taken a dramatic step in its efforts to manage illegal immigration, by deporting migrants from several Asian countries, such as Pakistan and Afghanistan, to Panama.
The US is facing increasing challenges in sending these individuals back to their home countries, many of which are unwilling to accept their return.
In response, the US government arranged for a flight that took over 100 migrants from California to Panama.
The passengers, who include families from nations like China and Uzbekistan, were initially housed in a hotel near Panama City before being moved to a shelter in Darien, where they would await repatriation.
Panama's leadership has shown a willingness to cooperate with the US on these matters, including agreeing to house the migrants temporarily.
President Jose Raul Mulino confirmed that the migrants would soon be sent back to their countries of origin, with the entire operation financed by the US government.
The arrangement comes after high-level diplomatic discussions between the US and Panama, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio's recent visit to the country reportedly playing a role in solidifying Panama's cooperation.
This move is seen as a shift in how the US handles unauthorized migration, as it now looks to other nations in the region to help address the issue.
Panama, under pressure from the Trump administration, has agreed to host deported individuals, with plans to expedite their return to their respective countries.
The cooperation is also framed in the broader context of US-Panama relations, where issues like the management of the Panama Canal and countering Chinese influence are high on the agenda.
While some view this as a successful example of regional cooperation, others are concerned about the treatment and safety of the deported migrants, particularly in countries known for high levels of violence or instability.
The policy also raises questions about the broader implications of sending migrants to unfamiliar countries where they may face serious challenges in integrating or finding safety.