Argentina could become the latest country to receive U.S. deportees from third countries, according to a new report.
The New York Times noted that the agreement has not been finalized, but the Javier Milei administration has shown eagerness to be on Donald Trump’s good side and strengthen the country’s alliance with the U.S.
The proposal was sent by Argentina‘s acting vice minister for foreign affairs, Juan Navarro, and Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno had made a commitment to U.S. authorities to reach a deal, which contemplates sending people detained near the border shortly after crossing unlawfully.
The idea is for deportees to be flown to Argentina, from where they could be offered flights to return to their home countries. Remaining obstacles include the potential financial cost this would have for Argentina, going through budget cuts implemented by the Milei administration, as well as a lack of infrastructure to house and transport migrants.
Other South American countries that have reached similar deals include Paraguay and Ecuador, also friendly with the Trump administration. The later clarified that those sent there must have not committed crimes or have health issues.
The Trump administration is continuously looking for countries to send deportees from third countries. In October, the Central American nation of Belize also signed such an agreement.
The Belize government confirmed the deal in a statement but clarified that it “retains an absolute veto over transfers, with restrictions on nationalities, a cap on transferees, and comprehensive security screenings.” It also reiterated its “commitment to international law and humanitarian principles while ensuring strong national safeguards.”
In August, the Trump administration struck a deal with Honduras to send deportees from third countries. Concretely, it accepted to receive a few hundred deportees over a two-year period, but it opened the door to taking in more.
Moreover, and a recent report claimed it has paid at least five of them to do so. According to the Washington Post, they are Equatorial Guinea, El Salvador, Eswatini, Ghana and Rwanda.
Originally published on Latin Times
