Brazil has called for explanations from the United States following reports of “degrading treatment” of Brazilian migrants deported on a U.S. flight last Friday. The Brazilian government summoned Gabriel Escobar, the top-ranking U.S. envoy in Brasília, to discuss the treatment of deportees and explore mutually acceptable terms for future repatriations.
The controversy arose after deportees arrived in Brazil handcuffed and alleged mistreatment during the flight. Reports from local media indicated that migrants experienced physical abuse and were denied bathroom access. Brazil’s foreign ministry condemned these actions and demanded accountability from U.S. authorities.
This marks the second deportation flight to Brazil this year, and the first since Donald Trump resumed office. The flight, carrying 88 Brazilian migrants and 16 U.S. security agents, was initially scheduled to land in Belo Horizonte but made an unscheduled stop in Manaus due to technical issues. Brazilian officials intervened during the stop to have the migrants’ handcuffs removed.
The Lula administration has expressed its intent to continue receiving deportation flights but emphasized the need for humane treatment of deportees. A Brazilian Air Force plane was designated to ensure the migrants completed their journey safely.
This incident adds to growing tensions surrounding U.S. deportation policies, with President Trump ramping up deportations and similar disputes emerging with other nations, including Colombia.