Elisa Martínez Martínez, the Cuban Consul General in Veracruz, has observed a significant increase in repatriation requests from Cuban nationals in recent months. She attributes this trend to the stricter immigration policies enforced by the U.S. government under President Donald Trump. According to Martínez, this uptick in requests began around October 2024 and has continued to rise steadily.
“The situation has flipped. We are currently receiving a substantial number of requests for return to Cuba, starting in October, as individuals reconsider their options in light of Trump’s new laws,” Martínez stated in an interview with local media outlet Cambio Digital. The consulate is reportedly handling an average of six requests per day, each being assessed individually by Cuban immigration authorities.
Challenges and Decisions Facing Cuban Migrants
However, not all migrants are eager to return. “Some may choose to remain here in Veracruz to find work, while others might move to different countries,” she noted. In addition to the political changes affecting their migration routes, the consul also warned about the dangers Cubans face during their journey through Mexico.
Martínez emphasized that Cuban migrants, alongside others from different nations, are frequently exposed to risks such as kidnapping, extortion, and murder. “Every day, Cuban migrants encounter various dangers and crimes while crossing Mexico,” she highlighted, with her comments being echoed by La Jornada.
The Cuban consulate remains committed to assisting its citizens in vulnerable situations. “Faced with these challenges, migrants should approach the consulate for support,” she urged.
Mexico's Repatriation Program and Its Impact
In January, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum introduced a repatriation program targeting migrants stranded in the country. This initiative was a direct reaction to the migratory pressures stemming from the Trump administration, primarily affecting Latin American migrants, including Cubans.
Sheinbaum explained, “We aim to find mechanisms through immigration and foreign policy to ensure their return. We have agreements with Guatemala and almost all Central American countries, with a meeting held last week for this purpose. There is also an agreement with Cuba.”
Statistics from the Mexican Commission for Refugee Aid (COMAR) reveal that over 16,000 asylum applications were filed by Cuban nationals in 2024, making them the second-largest group of applicants, surpassed only by Hondurans. Yet, Mexican authorities have consistently denied many of these applications, even when applicants provide evidence of political persecution. This leaves Cubans in a precarious position, lacking the documentation needed for legal residency or family reunification.
Given these challenges, some Cuban migrants have chosen to settle permanently in Mexico. Cities like Tapachula have become central hubs for this new wave of migration, where Cubans seek stable employment and a more secure life.
Trump Administration's Impact on Cuban Migrants
Since returning to the White House, President Donald Trump has enacted several measures that have directly impacted the migrant community, particularly Cubans. Notably, the revocation of the humanitarian “parole” program has put over 530,000 migrants, including around 111,000 Cubans, at risk of deportation.
Moreover, the Trump administration has halted the processing of permanent residency for individuals already approved as refugees or granted asylum in the United States.
Understanding the Repatriation Requests from Cuban Nationals
Why are Cuban nationals requesting repatriation to the island?
Cuban nationals are increasingly seeking repatriation due to the tightening of U.S. immigration policies under President Donald Trump, which has led many to reconsider their options.
What challenges do Cubans face while migrating through Mexico?
Cuban migrants face significant risks such as kidnapping, extortion, and murder on their journey through Mexico, similar to migrants from other countries.
How has Mexico responded to the increased pressure from migrants?
In response to increased migratory pressure, Mexico has launched a repatriation program aimed at returning stranded migrants to their home countries, including Cubans.