Trump's Deportation Struggles: Fewer Numbers, Bigger Plans

Despite ambitious deportation promises, President Trump deported significantly fewer individuals in his first month than during the last full year of Biden's term. Agreements with Central American countries and military assistance aim to boost deportations. Efforts continue amid civil liberties concerns and ICE resource limitations.

WASHINGTON, Feb 21 - President Trump deported 37,660 people in his first month, falling short of the monthly average of 57,000 under Biden's administration. This comes despite his vows for mass deportation and efforts to escalate arrests.

Agreements with Guatemala, El Salvador, Panama, and Costa Rica, alongside military-supported deportation flights, indicate future increases. However, challenges persist due to limitations in ICE detention capacity and rising migrant arrests at immigration courts, a reversal from Biden-era policies.

The Senate recently approved a $340 billion border security boost, combining deportation initiatives and additional military funding, under the direction of Trump's broader immigration agenda.

(With inputs from agencies.)