'Promises made, promises kept': White House shares pictures of mass deportation via military aircraft
PTC Web Desk: The White House has announced the launch of extensive deportation operations, with President Donald Trump fulfilling his campaign promise to take firm action against illegal immigration. A post on X highlighted the administration's commitment to ensuring that those who enter the United States without legal authorisation face serious repercussions.
"Just as he promised, President Donald Trump is sending a strong message to the world: those who enter the United States illegally will face serious consequences," the post declared.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt also confirmed the start of these operations. She stated that 538 persons classified as illegal immigrant criminals had already been apprehended. Among them were a suspected terrorist, four members of the Tren de Aragua gang, and multiple persons convicted of sexual assault crimes against minors.
In another post on X, Leavitt noted that deportation flights had begun, marking what she described as the largest deportation initiative in US history. "The Trump Administration arrested 538 illegal immigrant criminals and deported hundreds via military aircraft. Promises made, promises kept," she wrote.
Deportation flights have begun.
President Trump is sending a strong and clear message to the entire world: if you illegally enter the United States of America, you will face severe consequences. pic.twitter.com/CTlG8MRcY1 — Karoline Leavitt (@PressSec) January 24, 2025
The administration emphasised the use of military aircraft to expedite the deportation process, showcasing a firm stance against undocumented people. These developments are part of President Trump's broader immigration strategy, which he prioritised during his 2024 presidential campaign. After taking office on January 20, he signed executive orders declaring a national emergency at the US-Mexico border to address illegal migration.
India has also weighed in on the issue of illegal immigration. The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated its position against undocumented residency, linking it to organised crime. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that India would facilitate the return of its nationals overstaying or residing illegally in foreign countries, including the United States.
Just as he promised, President Trump is sending a strong message to the world: those who enter the United States illegally will face serious consequences. pic.twitter.com/yqgtF1RX6K — The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 24, 2025
"For Indians not just in the United States, but anywhere in the world, if they are Indian nationals overstaying or residing without proper documentation, we will take them back. However, documents confirming their nationality must be provided for verification," Jaiswal explained.
While President Trump has voiced support for skilled immigrants under the H-1B visa programme, which he sees as crucial for attracting top talent, the status of undocumented individuals, including Indians, remains a contentious issue. The US government's intensified immigration measures have sparked concern among immigrant communities, including the sizable Indian diaspora in America.
- With inputs from agencies
