In the photo: Presidential envoy for special missions, Richard Grenell, oversees the boarding of deported migrants onto a Conviasa Venezuelan aircraft in El Paso, Texas, as posted on his social media.
Guacamaya, March 8, 2025. The administration of Donald Trump faces a new challenge in its plans for mass deportations. The Venezuelan government has privately informed the administration that it will not accept any more returned migrants, according to a note published in The Wall Street Journal, after consulting sources familiar with the matter.
The initial agreement, which had allowed for the repatriation of approximately 360 Venezuelans, deteriorated after the U.S. government gave Chevron 30 days to reduce its operations in Venezuela. Trump’s measure aims to increase economic pressure on the Nicolás Maduro regime. However, this could lead more Venezuelans to flee the country.
The Venezuelan warning further complicates Trump’s deportation plans, which already face legal and logistical obstacles. U.S. courts have temporarily suspended the transfer of detained Venezuelans to Guantánamo, and military deportation flights have been halted due to cost concerns.
Within Trump’s circle, there are divisions on how to handle the situation in Venezuela. Some allies advocate for a pragmatic approach that benefits U.S. businesses, while others, including Florida Republicans, seek to isolate the Maduro regime.
The revocation of Chevron’s license would exacerbate inflation in Venezuela by depriving its economy of over $3 billion in annual revenue. When Trump took office, there were expectations of sanctions relief and increased trade engagement. However, Trump’s priority has been the swift removal of Venezuelan migrants from U.S. soil.
Despite some initial progress, relations show signs of fragility, creating uncertainty in both Washington and Caracas. Meanwhile, other international actors await guidance on their operations in Venezuela. Trump’s move is seen as a short-term political concession that could increase migration and economic hardships in the country.
