Mexico Rejects US Proposal to Transport Migrants to Guantanamo Bay

Mexico’s foreign minister announced on Tuesday that the country will not permit the United States to send Mexican migrants to the Guantanamo Bay detention facility in Cuba. Foreign Minister Juan Ramon de la Fuente emphasized that Mexico prefers to accept migrants directly.

Officials Clarify Mexico’s Stance

The Mexican government has taken proactive steps by sending a diplomatic note to the U.S. embassy in Mexico City to articulate its position on the matter.

US Begins Transporting Migrants

This announcement follows statements from White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who indicated that the Trump administration has initiated flights transporting detained migrants from the U.S. to Guantanamo Bay. However, she did not disclose the nationalities of those being transported.

Details of the Flights

Leavitt confirmed, “I can also confirm that today the first flights from the United States to Guantanamo Bay with illegal migrants are underway.” She highlighted that President Trump and his associates are realizing a commitment to utilize the Guantanamo facility for individuals convicted of violating immigration laws and committing other serious crimes against American citizens.

Trump’s Vision for Guantanamo Bay

U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed his intention to expand the Guantanamo facility, aiming to accommodate up to 30,000 immigrants deemed “criminal illegal aliens.” The facility has long faced global criticism for alleged human rights violations, including torture and inhumane treatment of detainees.

Current Status of Migrants

According to Pentagon sources, one flight from Fort Bliss en route to Guantanamo Bay currently has approximately a dozen migrants aboard. An additional flight departed the U.S. on Monday, reflecting the administration’s continued efforts in this controversial policy.

Separation from Existing Detainees

The incoming migrants will be held separately from the existing 15 detainees at Guantanamo Bay, which were detained following the September 11 attacks. This policy aims to distinctively categorize these new arrivals from those associated with terrorism-related activities.

International Reactions

Last week, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel condemned the U.S. initiative, labeling it an “act of brutality.” He criticized the plan to imprison thousands of migrants at Guantanamo, which he referred to as being situated in “illegally occupied territory of Cuba.” His statements were made through a translated message posted on social media platform X.

The Broader Impact on Migration Policies

This development raises important questions about international migration policies and human rights implications. The decision of both nations will undoubtedly continue to spark debates regarding the treatment of migrants and the ethics surrounding detention practices.

Final Thoughts on US-Mexico Relations

The communication from Mexico strongly highlights the country’s commitment to direct engagement with migrants. As discussions surrounding migrant treatment evolve, both the U.S. and Mexico must navigate their diplomatic relations carefully.

Reuters contributed to this report.