Secretary Of State Rubio Focuses On Immigration In Panama

Secretary of State Marco Rubio boards a plane at Panama Pacifico International Airport in Panama City, Monday, Feb. 3, 2025, en route to El Salvador. (AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein, Pool)

U.S. Secretary of State witnessed a deportation flight carrying 43 migrants departing from Panama on Monday, as part of the Trump administration's efforts to deter illegal migration to the United States. This event took place during Secretary Rubio's visit to Panama City, where he shifted his focus to immigration issues.

The flight transported 32 men and 11 women back to Colombia after being apprehended in Panama following their crossing of the Darien Gap. Secretary Rubio inspected the plane before addressing the media, highlighting the significance of such deportations in sending a message of deterrence.

The U.S. has provided Panama with financial aid amounting to nearly $2.7 million for deportation flights and tickets. Rubio emphasized the global impact of mass migration, acknowledging the challenges faced by migrants and the negative consequences of uncontrolled migration.

Flight aimed to deter illegal migration and send a message of deterrence.

Secretary Rubio observed deportation flight of 43 migrants from Panama to Colombia.

U.S. provided Panama with financial aid for deportation flights.

Panama cooperating effectively compared to Colombia in accepting deportation flights.

Efforts include directing migrants through specific entry points and increasing patrols.

Challenges remain with Venezuelans crossing the Darien Gap.

Rubio praised Panama's collaboration in addressing illegal migration.

Visit to El Salvador to focus on migration challenges in Central America.

U.S. freeze in foreign assistance impacts programs targeting illegal migration in Central America.

Rubio approved waivers for critical programs during his visit.

President Trump has been pressuring nations to accept deportation flights, with Panama cooperating more effectively than Colombia. Panama has facilitated the return of third-country deportees and has seen a significant decrease in migrant crossings through the Darien Gap.

Efforts to control migration include directing migrants through specific entry points and increasing patrols in the Darien region. Panama has conducted 44 deportation flights since last July, primarily returning Colombians and Ecuadorians.

Despite the success in reducing migrant numbers, challenges remain, particularly with Venezuelans who constitute a significant portion of migrants crossing the Darien. Venezuela has not accepted deportation flights from Panama.

Rubio praised Panama's collaboration in addressing illegal migration and expressed gratitude for the partnership. He highlighted the importance of working together to combat mass migration effectively.

Following his visit to Panama, Rubio proceeded to El Salvador, where migration issues will also be a key focus. His trip aims to address migration challenges in Central America and strengthen partnerships in the region.

The U.S. has implemented a freeze in foreign assistance, impacting programs targeting illegal migration and crime in Central American countries. Rubio approved waivers for critical programs during his visit, signaling ongoing support for key initiatives.

For more updates on Marco Rubio's trip, visit AP's coverage of Marco Rubio.