A group of 34 Cuban nationals deported by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has reported being left stranded in a small town in Chiapas, Mexico, without money, identification, or basic necessities.
The migrants shared their ordeal in a video with journalist Javier Díaz, detailing the harsh conditions they have endured since being expelled from the United States.
"We've been nine days without a shower, sleeping on the floor without any money. This is inhumane," one of them lamented.
According to their account, they were abandoned in a perilous area, forced to fend for themselves while waiting for Mexican authorities to provide them with a safe-conduct pass to process documents and receive financial aid.
"We're hoping that Mexico will give us a safe-conduct so we can arrange paperwork and get some money through Western Union," explained another from the group.
Recent Deportations and Repatriations
This week, the United States sent 232 irregular migrants back to Cuba as part of bilateral migration agreements. It marked the tenth deportation flight of the year. Among those returned were 189 men, 42 women, and one minor.
Three of the deportees were handed over to Cuban authorities for alleged crimes committed before leaving the country. With this flight, there have been 38 deportation operations to Cuba in 2025, resulting in 1,376 individuals being sent back.
However, not all Cuban deportees by ICE are returned to the island. Some, like the 34 in Chiapas, find themselves stranded in Mexico or other countries, while others face more complicated situations. For instance, Cuban national Jorge Muñiz García remains detained in Florida, dealing with a history of severe criminal charges.
The plight of Cuban migrants highlights an escalating humanitarian and migration crisis, underscored by desperation and a lack of international protection.
Understanding the Challenges Faced by Cuban Deportees
Why are Cuban deportees left stranded in Mexico?
Some Cuban deportees are not sent back to Cuba due to complex legal or logistical issues. They may find themselves abandoned in Mexico while awaiting the necessary documentation and financial aid.
What assistance are the stranded Cuban deportees seeking?
The deportees are seeking a safe-conduct pass from Mexican authorities, which would allow them to process essential documents and access financial resources.
How does the situation of these deportees reflect broader migration issues?
The case of the stranded Cuban deportees underscores a growing humanitarian crisis, highlighting the desperation faced by migrants and the lack of adequate international protection and support.