US Deports Migrants from Latin America and Cuba to Liberia

Liberia is preparing to receive its first deportation flight from the US, carrying 20 people. Liberian Minister of Information Jerolinmek Piah confirmed that the vast majority of them will come from Latin American countries, particularly Cuba, Venezuela and Colombia.

The West African nation has agreed to accept up to 1,200 third-country nationals deported from the US over the next 12 months. This is part of the Trump administration's broader strategy to expedite deportations through agreements with African partners.

Those deported will be received in Liberia as guests, with the option to move freely or apply for asylum. The International Organization for Migration and the UN Refugee Agency will assist in providing services and care.

Washington has provided Liberia with $5m to manage migration and strengthen its system. However, human rights organizations have criticized these agreements, as deportations to third countries often involve people who face torture and persecution in their home countries.

(Reuters, Max)