Mexico Denies U.S. Military Aircraft Permission to Deport Migrants

MXMexico|

Mexico has declined a request from the U.S. government to allow a U.S. military aircraft to land in the country to deport migrants. On January 25, 2025, two U.S. military flights, each carrying approximately 80 migrants, were successfully sent to Guatemala, but plans to use a C-17 transport aircraft for deportations to Mexico were halted after the country refused permission.

In a statement, Mexico's foreign ministry reaffirmed its commitment to a strong relationship with the U.S. and stated that it would welcome the return of Mexican citizens. However, the ministry did not explain the decision to deny landing rights for the U.S. aircraft.

This incident follows the re-launch of the "Remain in Mexico" program by President Donald Trump, which requires non-Mexican asylum seekers to wait in Mexico while their U.S. cases are resolved. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum noted that any such program needs agreement from Mexico, which has not been granted.

The U.S.-Mexico relationship has been under scrutiny since Trump's recent declaration of a national emergency along the border, prompting the deployment of additional U.S. troops. As part of a military response to this emergency, the Pentagon is utilizing military aircraft to facilitate the deportation of over 5,000 immigrants.

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