In a first-of-its-kind deportation since President Donald Trump’s return to office, a US military aircraft carrying Indian migrants has departed for India, a US official told Reuters on Monday. The C-17 military aircraft is expected to land in India within 24 hours.
US Expands Military Role in Deportations
Under Trump’s administration, the US military has taken a more active role in immigration enforcement, including deploying additional troops to the US-Mexico border, using military facilities to house migrants, and employing military planes for deportations. While similar flights have previously deported migrants to Guatemala, Peru, and Honduras, this marks the first time India has been included in the program since Trump reassumed office.
The Pentagon has begun arranging flights to deport over 5,000 migrants detained in El Paso, Texas, and San Diego, California, according to Reuters.
Trump and Rubio Discuss Immigration With Indian Leaders
Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio raised concerns over illegal Indian immigration in discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
Trump emphasized that he expects India to “do what is right” in accepting the return of undocumented Indian migrants. The White House described the conversation as “productive,” highlighting efforts to strengthen US-India cooperation.
Meanwhile, Rubio discussed “irregular immigration” with Jaishankar, who reiterated that India does not support illegal migration. “Illegal immigration is often linked to other unlawful activities. It is neither desirable nor beneficial for our reputation,” Jaishankar said, adding that India is open to accepting verified Indian citizens who entered the US illegally.
Deportation Costs and India’s Response
Military deportation flights are far more expensive than those operated by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). A recent military deportation flight to Guatemala reportedly cost $4,675 per migrant, according to Reuters.
This unprecedented deportation signals a tougher stance on illegal immigration under Trump’s leadership, while also testing India’s diplomatic approach to handling returning migrants.
