Seven migrants deported from the US have arrived in Rwanda, the first of 250 expected to be taken in as part of a deal reached with former President Donald Trump's administration.
Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo confirmed the arrival of the first group of seven vetted migrants, but did not disclose their nationalities. She stated that four would remain in Rwanda while three opted to return home.
Rights groups have raised concerns that such deportations could violate international law, particularly if individuals are sent to places where they risk torture or other forms of abuse.
Trump's administration has emphasized a broad deportation strategy targeting undocumented migrants since beginning his second term in January, with at least a dozen nations agreeing to accept deported individuals.
Makolo reassured that all deported individuals would receive appropriate support and protection, and that they are currently being accommodated by an international organization while undergoing assessments of their needs.
The Rwandan government has framed itself as a protector of displaced individuals, pointing to the country's own history of genocide and its experiences with humanitarian crises.
This deal follows various previous arrangements Rwanda has entered, including a controversial agreement with the UK to accept asylum seekers that has faced significant legal challenges.
While it is unclear if there is a financial element linked to this new deal, earlier reports state that the UK had invested approximately £240 million in Rwanda for similar purposes, now left in question following a change in government.
