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First group of deportees arrives in Kinshasa
Fifteen individuals deported from the United States arrived in the Democratic Republic of Congo early Friday, marking the first transfer under a new agreement between the two nations. The group, reportedly from South America, landed at N'djili International Airport, according to sources.
Temporary stay with US funding
The Congolese government confirmed the arrival but emphasized that the migrants' stay is short-term. Washington is covering costs for their reception, support, and care, Kinshasa stated. The arrangement does not constitute permanent relocation or an outsourcing of migration policies, officials clarified.
"The individuals concerned are admitted to the national territory under short-stay permits, in accordance with national legislation,"
Congolese government statement
US expands third-country deportations
The deportation aligns with the Trump administration's hardline immigration policies, which have included sending migrants to nations unrelated to their origin. Since January 2025, the US has deported dozens to third countries, including Ghana, South Sudan, and Eswatini. A US Senate report estimates spending on such operations exceeded $40 million by early 2026, though total costs remain undisclosed.
Direct funding of $32 million has been provided to five countries-Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, El Salvador, Eswatini, and Palau-to facilitate these transfers.
Airport source identifies nationalities
While Congolese authorities did not disclose the deportees' origins, a source at N'djili Airport told the BBC most were Colombian and Peruvian. The US State Department declined to comment on diplomatic discussions but reiterated its commitment to curbing illegal immigration and strengthening border security.
Broader US-Congo relations
The deportation deal coincides with ongoing US efforts to secure access to Congo's critical mineral reserves, including cobalt and lithium. Under President Trump, Washington also mediated a fragile peace agreement between Congo and Rwanda, though implementation remains stalled. Recent talks in Switzerland, brokered by the US and Qatar, yielded pledges from both sides to allow humanitarian aid and monitor a ceasefire in eastern Congo.
Rwanda continues to deny backing the M23 rebels, despite evidence to the contrary, citing security concerns.
Humanitarian and diplomatic implications
Kinshasa framed the deportation agreement as a gesture of international solidarity and respect for migrant rights. However, the temporary nature of the arrangement raises questions about long-term solutions for third-country deportees.
