Mexico has now indicated a willingness to accept non-Mexican migrants deported by the United States, despite earlier statements suggesting that they would urge President-elect Donald Trump to send these individuals back to their home countries.
President Claudia Sheinbaum mentioned in a press conference that if the U.S. does not return migrants to their nations, Mexico is open to collaborating through various mechanisms.
While specifics were not provided, it is possible that Mexico may restrict this to certain nationalities or seek compensation from the U.S. for the costs associated with repatriating these individuals.
Sheinbaum emphasized that discussions with the U.S. government will occur if deportations take place, assuring that Mexico is prepared to receive these migrants appropriately.
"There will be time to speak with the united states government if these reports really happen , but we will receive them here , we are going to receive them properly and we have a plan ", she said .
Trump has vowed to initiate large-scale deportations, but critics point out the logistical difficulties in significantly increasing the already high deportation rates.
Although Mexico is not required to accept non-Mexican migrants, it has recently agreed to do so, particularly from nations like Cuba and Venezuela, which often decline deportation flights from the U.S. but may accept them from Mexico.
Mexico had temporarily halted deportations in December 2023 due to financial constraints, and the numbers have been notably lower in 2024 compared to previous years.