Venezuelans weigh in on Biden Administration’s announcement to deport them back to their country

EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The Biden Administration announced Thursday that some Venezuelan migrants will be deported back to their country.

The U.S. will resume repatriation flights for Venezuelans who crossed the border unlawfully and who do not have a legal basis to remain in the country.

The announcement was made after Venezuelan authorities accepted returning Venezuelan nationals following discussions between both countries.

ABC-7 talked to some migrants about the policy change. Some said they are frustrated they could be facing deportation.

Another migrant said this won't stop others from making their way to the United States.

Most Venezuelans have left their country because they face hunger, persecution and violence.

Maria Castillo said she understands the norms and rules the United States has just implemented, but she said most migrants have no other choice but enter the country illegally.

Castillo said this policy change sends a strong message that the U.S. does not want migrants to enter.

Edi Castillo, another Venezuelan migrant, said she is strongly against this.

She said Venezuelans have endured many challenges, and it's difficult knowing some could get sent back.

ABC-7 spoke to the legal director of the Diocesan Migrant and Refugee Services. Imelda Maynard said this policy change will not alleviate the strain many border communities are facing.

Maynard also said it is not fair for migrants to be sent to their country before presenting their asylum case.

"It mean it seems we are returning people to what we know is a dangerous situation," she said.

Just last month Department of Homeland Security officials announced some Venezuelan migrants would receive Temporary Protected Status. Some would also be eligible for a work permit.

She said this latest decision is contradicting and could create some confusion.

"I think the message that the government is trying to send is we don't want people here right? And I think they are trying to dissuade people from making their journey and coming to the United States sort of by reinforcing the notion that you know you will be deported back to the country and essentially made that journey for no reason," she said.

U.S. officials haven't provided any information on when the repatriation flights will begin.