Venezuela organizes repatriation flights for citizens returning from Mexico, the U.S. and El Salvador as President Maduro condemns migrant detention policies abroad and highlights government assistance programs.

Related:

Venezuela to Resume On Sunday Repatriation of Its Migrants From the US

This Thursday, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro announced the arrival of a new repatriation flight from Mexico scheduled for 11:00 AM, with additional groups of returning citizens expected from the United States and El Salvador at 3:00 PM.

The government has also scheduled another repatriation flight for Friday at 6:00 PM as part of its ongoing weekly return program. The announcements come as Venezuela continues to facilitate the return of its citizens living abroad under difficult circumstances.

During his address, President Maduro revealed plans to secure the release of more than 200 Venezuelans who have been detained in foreign prisons for over a year. He framed these detentions as consequences of what he called an “economic war” and international sanctions, particularly those imposed by the United States.

These remarks were made against the backdrop of Venezuela’s prolonged economic crisis, which has driven millions to emigrate in search of better opportunities.

The Venezuelan leader also strongly criticized the treatment of migrants abroad, specifically accusing the U.S. government of “kidnapping” Venezuelan citizens and transferring them to detention facilities in El Salvador.

He called for nationwide solidarity efforts, including petition drives and protests, to support what he described as victims of “brutal persecution.” Maduro singled out Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele, alleging he had turned his country into a “prison” for Venezuelans at the behest of U.S. interests.

Maduro used the opportunity to highlight Venezuela’s unique “Gran Misión” (Great Mission) program, which he said represents the world’s only government initiative specifically dedicated to assisting migrant populations. The comments appeared designed to contrast Venezuela’s approach with the policies of other nations while reinforcing the government’s narrative of protecting its citizens against foreign oppression.

The developments underscore the complex challenges facing Venezuelan migrants worldwide, many of whom left their homeland seeking relief from economic hardship only to encounter difficult conditions abroad.

They also reflect the ongoing political tensions between Venezuela and several nations regarding human rights and migration policies. The government’s repatriation efforts and rhetorical campaign suggest an attempt to address both the practical needs and political dimensions of Venezuela’s migration crisis.

EN ESTA NOTA: