Kathmandu— The first group of deportees, totaling twenty people primarily from Latin American countries like Venezuela and Cuba, arrived at Roberts International Airport in Monrovia, Liberia on Thursday as part of a growing trend of third-country deportations initiated by the US administration. The flight is the result of an agreement between the US and Liberia to accept up to 1,200 individuals over the coming year, joining a list of approximately 35 countries that have similar arrangements with the United States. Upon arrival, the group was transported by Liberian authorities without access to media.

Expanding Deportation Agreements

Liberia is among a growing number of nations entering into agreements with the US administration to accept third-country deportees – foreign nationals who are being sent to countries other than their own. Since taking office for a second term in 2025, President Trump has reportedly secured deals with at least 35 countries for this purpose, according to the nonprofit Human Rights First. These agreements often involve financial aid and trade concessions; Senate Democrats estimated that $40 million was spent on such deals during the first year of Trump’s second term.

Liberia Denies Financial Incentive

The US awarded Liberia $5 million this year for “migration management activities,” but Liberia’s Ministry of Information has denied reports suggesting the deportation agreement was motivated by financial gain. In a statement released earlier this week, the ministry asserted that “the transfer of persons to Liberia is not a transaction with a quid pro quo.” Jerolinmek Piah, Liberia’s Information Minister, also stated that the International Organization for Migration and the UN refugee agency will assist in providing services to the deportees.

Deportee Rights And Historical Context

According to Tuesday’s statement, those brought to Liberia will be permitted to apply for asylum and are free to leave the country if they choose. Liberian authorities have clarified that these individuals are not considered criminals or subject to prosecution. The Ministry of Information highlighted Liberia's historical role as a haven for those seeking refuge, noting its founding as a settlement for freed slaves from the United States and other parts of the world.

Concerns Over Deportation Practices

Critics have raised concerns that smaller countries are being used as “dumping grounds” for US deportees, questioning whether adequate resources will be available to support them. Some characterize these third-country deportations as excessively punitive, potentially stranding migrants in unfamiliar environments where they may not speak the local language. The Trump administration defends the practice as a necessary measure for individuals whose home countries refuse repatriation and as a deterrent to illegal immigration.

The arrival of this first group marks the beginning of what is expected to be an ongoing program, with up to 1,200 deportees anticipated over the next year. The situation continues to draw scrutiny from human rights groups and international observers.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.