International Desk
28 January
Ludhiana
Journalist Sandeep Dhand
956 Arrests Made by ICE
In the first week after taking office, President Donald Trump has implemented strict immigration policies. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reported 956 arrests of individuals living in the country illegally.
Trump Urges Countries to Repatriate Illegal Immigrants
The Trump administration emphasized the responsibility of all nations to recall their citizens living illegally in the US. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated, “America will no longer be taken advantage of under President Trump.”
Modi-Trump Call: Focus on Indian Immigrants
Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to President Trump over the phone. Trump expressed confidence that India would ensure the return of its illegal immigrants. The number of illegal Indian immigrants in the US has dropped from 480,000 in 2018 to 220,000 in 2022, according to the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Colombian Deportation Incident Sparks Tension
A diplomatic row unfolded when Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro revoked permission for a US military aircraft carrying deported Colombian immigrants to land. Trump called this a “national security threat” and imposed a 25% tariff on Colombian goods, with plans to increase it to 50% in a week.
Colombia Agrees to US Terms
In response, Colombia announced it would send a presidential plane to bring its citizens back with dignity. The White House later confirmed that Colombia had agreed to accept deported citizens promptly and without conditions.
US Immigration Data
As of 2022, 11 million people were living in the US illegally. Most were from Mexico, with California and Texas being primary entry points.