“I say this unapologetically, we are actively searching for other countries to take people from third countries,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said at a Cabinet meeting Wednesday.
The Trump administration is exploring deals with Libya and Rwanda to relocate migrants with criminal records from the U.S., according to multiple sources familiar with the discussions. Talks include potential “safe third country” agreements that would allow asylum seekers to be sent to Libya, a country criticized by the U.N. for systemic migrant abuse. Rwanda is also considering accepting former U.S. inmates with stipends and reintegration support.
State Department officials met this week with Libyan representatives, including Gen. Saddam Haftar. The plan, still in early stages, reflects the administration’s push to reduce migration through international cooperation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed efforts to find partner countries: “We want to send you some of the most despicable human beings… and the further away from America, the better.”
Discussions with Rwanda date back to Trump’s first term, with one Iraqi migrant already transferred. The proposals could face legal hurdles following a court ruling requiring notice before third-country removals.