Venezuela risks severe sanctions for rejecting deported citizens

Venezuela may face significant new sanctions if it does not accept its citizens who are being deported from the United States. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made this warning on Tuesday. The U.S. government is increasing deportations of Venezuelans living illegally in the country. Rubio stated that Venezuela is required to take back its citizens. He emphasized that this is not up for negotiation and warned there would be "severe, and escalating sanctions" unless the Maduro regime agrees to accept deportation flights. This comment comes as the Trump administration looks to act against illegal immigration from Venezuela. Venezuelans have fled to the U.S. due to the country's severe economic problems. Many have protected status, which allows them to stay temporarily. Earlier, Maduro had resisted accepting repatriation flights, but recent discussions indicated he agreed to take back his citizens. In related actions, recently deported gang members were sent to El Salvador. The U.S. is also trying to deport more Venezuelan gang members. Rubio thanked the president of El Salvador for accepting these migrants, stating it saves the U.S. money. The situation remains tense as both countries navigate this issue amid ongoing political and economic struggles.