US Deports First Group of Migrants to Liberia Under New Deal

The United States sent 20 deportees to Liberia on Thursday, beginning implementation of an agreement that allows up to 1,200 third-country nationals to be transferred there over 12 months. The group arrived at Roberts International Airport near Monrovia, according to Associated Press reporting and Liberian officials. Information Minister Jerolinmek Piah said the program can include nationals from African countries and the Americas and Caribbean; Reuters reported most are expected to come from Latin America, including Venezuela, Cuba and Colombia. Justice Minister Natu Oswald Tweh said most arrivals had immigration violations or offenses and had been screened. Liberia says transferred people will be treated as guests, may leave or seek asylum, and will receive protection support. The agreement stems from diplomatic notes that entered force September 10, 2025. The U.S. has defended third-country removals as lawful, while immigration advocates question safeguards for people unable to return safely to their home countries.