Trump officials ‘illegally deported’ Vietnamese and Burmese migrants to South Sudan
GuardianMAY 15
Judge Rules Trump Admin Violated Deportations Order
Above: Venezuelan migrants deported from the United States gesture while walking down a plane upon arrival at Simon Bolivar International Airport in Maiquetia, Venezuela on March 28, 2025. Image copyright: Pedro MATTEY/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Republican narrative
The deportations represent a necessary measure to enforce immigration law and remove individuals with serious criminal records, including at least one convicted murderer and one rapist. The government maintains proper procedures were followed, and the final destinations were classified for security reasons. Swift deportation actions are essential for maintaining border security and public safety.
Democratic narrative
These deportations constitute a clear violation of due process rights and court orders, potentially exposing vulnerable migrants to life-threatening conditions in a conflict-torn country. The hasty removals, lack of proper notice, and failure to provide language assistance demonstrate a disturbing disregard for both human rights and judicial authority.