Democrats Condemn Trump Administration's Secret Deportations to Third Countries

Democrats Demand Answers on Third-Country Deportations Amid Global Concerns WASHINGTON - More than 60 Democratic lawmakers have sent a letter to the Trump administration, expressing grave concerns about the ongoing removal of immigrants to third countries with which they have no connection. The letter, dated Wednesday, requests that the administration provide basic information about the scope and frequency of these deportations. The issue has sparked global concern, particularly in Latin America, where many of those affected are being sent to countries such as El Salvador. In March, a group of Venezuelans was deported from the United States to El Salvador's CECOT prison, sparking outrage among human rights groups. "We're talking about people who have been living in the United States for years, working, paying taxes, and contributing to society," said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), one of the lawmakers who signed the letter. "To just whisk them away to a country they've never even visited is unconscionable." The Trump administration has aggressively pursued its third-country removal program, which allows it to deport immigrants to countries with which they have no connection. In many cases, individuals are being sent to unstable or unfamiliar countries, where they face uncertain futures. "This policy is not only inhumane but also a clear breach of international law," said Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), another signatory to the letter. "We're seeing people being deported to countries with which they have no connection, and it's causing immense suffering." The administration has fought legal efforts to block or delay these deportations, including a recent case in South Sudan. Human rights groups have condemned the policy, citing concerns about the safety and well-being of those affected. "This is not just an American issue; it's a global concern," said Maria Rodriguez, director of the Latin American and Caribbean Committee for the Defense of the Rights of Immigrants (CALACRI). "We're seeing a pattern of disregard for human rights and international law that needs to be addressed." The letter from Democrats asks the administration to provide information on the scope of the third-country removal program, including the number of individuals affected and the countries to which they have been sent. It also requests details on the procedures used to determine which countries are suitable for deportation. As the debate continues, advocates for immigrant rights are calling on lawmakers to take action. "We need Congress to step in and protect these vulnerable communities," said Jayapal. "It's time for us to stand up for human rights and dignity." The Trump administration has yet to respond to the letter, but a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the agency is committed to enforcing immigration laws while ensuring the safety and well-being of those affected. "We will continue to work with our international partners to ensure that individuals are deported to countries where they can safely reintegrate into their communities," said the spokesperson. The issue is expected to remain a contentious one in the coming weeks, with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle weighing in on the policy. As the debate continues, advocates for immigrant rights will be watching closely to see if the administration provides the necessary information and takes steps to address the concerns raised by Democrats. *Reporting by Motherjones.*