Secretary Kristi Noem observed a repatriation flight of illegal aliens from Panama and Colombia. The deportees included individuals convicted of drug trafficking, sex crimes, and aggravated robbery.
The deportation program aims to create significant savings for U.S. taxpayers. It costs about half as much to remove an illegal alien from Panama compared to the removal process within the United States.
Secretary Noem extended a memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Panama, initially signed on July 1, 2024. This extension allows continued U.S. funding with an additional $7 million commitment for Panamanian government deportation flights. It supports Panama’s efforts to curb illegal immigration across the continent, including southbound migration from the United States. Under this agreement, 2,044 migrants without legal grounds to remain in Panama were deported to 23 countries between August 2024 and June 2025.
The partnership highlights the importance of collaboration with partner countries to prevent violent criminal illegal aliens from entering the U.S.
The agreement has contributed to closing the Darién region to illegal migratory flows into Panama en route to the United States. Under President Trump’s leadership, migration through Panama’s Darien Gap—a dangerous pathway used by illegal aliens heading toward the U.S.—has decreased by 99%.
Secretary Noem met with Panamanian President Mulino and other government officials to discuss ways for continued partnership between the U.S. and Panama in halting illegal immigration.
"These flights send a clear message to the world: If you come to either the U.S. or Panama illegally, you will be caught, arrested, and removed," stated Secretary Noem.
