U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised President Trump’s offer to take ownership of Gaza for redevelopment. He also addressed significant changes at USAID due to staff withdrawal under Trump’s orders. Guatemala agreed to accept U.S. deportees in a new arrangement, emphasizing immigration as a priority during this diplomatic engagement. These developments showcase challenges tied to foreign aid and immigration policies.
During a press conference in Guatemala City, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized President Trump’s proposal for the U.S. to take “ownership” of the Palestinian territory of Gaza and transform it into “the Riviera of the Middle East” as a “very generous” offer. Rubio stated, “It was not meant as a hostile move; it was meant as a… very generous move.” He highlighted the dire conditions in Gaza, equating the situation to a natural disaster due to unexploded munitions and debris that hinder proper living conditions.
Additionally, Rubio addressed the restructuring at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), noting that the government received no cooperation from agency employees who were operating contrary to directives. He expressed disappointment over having to abruptly withdraw most USAID employees from their posts under an order from the Trump administration. “It’s not the direction I wanted… it’s the way we will have to do it now,” he stated, regarding the unforeseen changes.
Guatemala’s President Bernardo Arévalo confirmed the country would accept deportees from the U.S. under a new agreement, indicating a 40% increase in deportation flights. This arrangement, which was instigated by the Trump administration, is part of a broader immigration strategy that Rubio has emphasized during his recent diplomatic visits to Central America. He previously negotiated a similar agreement with El Salvador, where they would accept a wide range of deportees.
Rubio’s engagement in Central America emphasizes immigration as a priority for the Trump administration, which has faced criticism regarding its approach. President Arévalo remarked that although his administration had previously deemed the prior agreement with Trump inadequate, they are open to cooperating with the U.S. in handling deportations.
Guatemala has already been managing deportation flights from the U.S., but the potential increase in deportations poses challenges, especially considering that remittances contribute significantly to the Guatemalan economy, constituting about one-fifth of the nation’s GDP.
The article discusses U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s comments on President Trump’s proposal regarding Gaza, as well as recent changes to USAID operations amid broader immigration discussions in Central America. It reflects on the geopolitical implications of foreign aid and immigration policies under the Trump administration, highlighting U.S.-Guatemala relations and the impact of deportation agreements on both countries. The backdrop of these changes includes a focus on enhancing diplomatic ties within the Central American region.
In summary, Marco Rubio described President Trump’s Gaza rebuilding proposal as generous, while addressing operational challenges at USAID due to staff withdrawal. The two administrations continue to navigate immigration issues, highlighted by a recent agreement allowing Guatemala to accept deportees from the U.S. These developments underscore ongoing diplomatic efforts and the economic implications of remittances for Guatemala, making it essential to understand the geopolitical landscape navigated by U.S. foreign policy.
Original Source: www.mainlinemedianews.com
