Congo and U.S. Discuss Third-Country Deportations amid Controversy

The Democratic Republic of Congo is engaging in discussions with the Trump administration about accepting deportees from other countries, according to government sources in Kinshasa. These negotiations represent the latest in a series of deals involving African nations and the U.S., aimed at accelerating migrant deportations from the United States.

Three U.N. sources and two diplomats, who have been briefed by U.S. officials, reveal that these discussions emphasize Washington's increasing dependence on third-country deportations. Such strategies are frequently finalized under secrecy, offering minimal public insight regarding their scope and conditions. The Congo talks align with broader U.S. efforts to implement a peace deal between Congo and Rwanda and enable access to Congolese minerals.

However, criticism arises as the U.S. has already deported individuals to countries like Ghana, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, and Eswatini, raising concerns over legality and migrant treatment. Key details in the Congo negotiations remain unsettled, with unknown timelines, potential deportee numbers, and reciprocation terms still pending. The U.N.'s International Organization for Migration suggests the plan might involve South American migrants.