Panama Begins Repatriating Migrants on US-Funded Flights
Panama has initiated the repatriation of undocumented migrants using flights funded by the United States, following a commitment made under a recent agreement. The first group, consisting of 29 Colombians with criminal records, was returned as part of President José Raúl Mulino's efforts to manage migration through the Darién Gap, a perilous route for many heading north from South America.
The US has pledged $6 million to assist Panama in logistics and equipment to facilitate the removal of migrants lacking legal status. This initiative aims to reduce the number of individuals reaching the US border by addressing migration earlier in the journey.
The situation remains critical, particularly for Venezuelans, who make up a significant portion of those crossing the Darién Gap. Concerns are rising about potential increases in migration due to ongoing political instability in Venezuela.