The U.S. will begin the process of deporting migrant children.

The U.S. presidential administration has launched a large-scale operation aimed at identifying and deporting unaccompanied minor migrants who have illegally entered the country. This initiative, according to the statement from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, is focused on combating child trafficking and ensuring their safety.

Reuters reports that since 2019, over 600,000 child migrants have crossed the U.S.-Mexico border. Authorities express concern about the vulnerability of these children to criminal organizations involved in human trafficking. The new program outlines a four-step process for identifying and deporting minor migrants who are in the country illegally. The first phase, which involved planning the operation, was completed on January 27 of this year. Details of the subsequent phases have not yet been disclosed.

The memorandum on immigration and customs enforcement that governs this operation emphasizes the need for measures to protect child migrants from exploitation and human trafficking. U.S. authorities assert their commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children within the country, regardless of their immigration status. However, it is noted that illegal presence in the country is itself a violation of the law, and deportation measures will be applied in accordance with existing legislation.

Representatives of the U.S. Immigration Service emphasize that this initiative is not aimed at minor migrants as such, but is a necessary step in the fight against crime and the protection of vulnerable populations.