Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem announced a reduction in deportation protections for 600,000 Venezuelans in the U.S. as part of the Trump administration's efforts to increase expulsions of Venezuelan nationals. Noem stated on Fox News that she revoked an 18-month extension of deportation relief and work permits for Venezuelans under the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program, indicating that these protections might expire later this year. She also mentioned collaborating with Secretary of State Marco Rubio to facilitate the deportation of Venezuelan and other migrants, possibly considering the use of the U.S. naval base in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
The Temporary Protected Status (TPS) program is designed for individuals from countries facing natural disasters, armed conflicts, or other crises. The Biden administration significantly expanded the program, covering over a million individuals from 17 nations, some of whom have been in the U.S. for decades and could face deportation if their TPS status is terminated.
Noem expressed a desire to reassess protections extended by the previous administration and investigate individuals, including members of the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA). She faces a deadline to determine the fate of Venezuelans whose TPS protection ends in April, heightening concerns among those relying on TPS for work authorization.
Numerous Venezuelans, including Laura Gatica, expressed anxiety over potential changes in their TPS status, as it enables them to work legally in various sectors such as hospitality, healthcare, and retail. Noem highlighted efforts, along with Senator Rubio, to negotiate with other nations to accept deported migrants, emphasizing President Trump's commitment to employing all available means to address the issue.
The strained relations between the U.S. and Venezuela, as well as Cuba, have complicated deportation processes, with both countries accepting limited deportees despite significant illegal immigration. Venezuelan opposition leader Edmundo Gonzalez suggested redirecting deportees to a third country rather than negotiating with President Nicolas Maduro.
Recent discussions mentioned utilizing a Colorado city for detaining migrants, echoing Trump's previous claims of Venezuelan gang presence in the area. While the administration hinted at launching a national campaign against alleged gang members, no concrete steps have been taken so far.