Background on Repatriation Flights
The use of military planes for repatriation flights is not a new development, as it has been a common practice in the United States for some time. These flights have been used to deport individuals who are in the country illegally, and they have been carried out by various administrations, including that of former President Joe Biden.
Previous Administration’s Deportation Efforts
During the Biden Administration, from 2021 to 2025, deportation flights were a regular occurrence. According to data from the Department of Homeland Security, over 860 repatriation flights took place between June and December of last year, resulting in the expulsion of more than 271,000 people from approximately 160 countries.
Current Administration’s Stance on Immigration
The current administration, led by President Donald Trump, has taken a tough stance on immigration, with a focus on speeding up the deportation process and militarizing the border with Mexico. In its first few days in office, the administration has signed several executive orders aimed at achieving these goals.
The White House has been promoting images of repatriation flights on social media, including a post by White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt on the X platform, where she shared images of military aircraft used for these flights. The post was intended to “send a message” about the administration’s commitment to enforcing immigration laws and deterring illegal entry into the United States.
President Trump’s campaign promise to carry out a large-scale expulsion of foreigners has been a central aspect of his immigration policy. The administration’s efforts to deport migrants who are in the country illegally are part of a broader strategy to address irregular migration and ensure that those who enter the country do so through legal channels.