The Guatemalan singer-songwriter Ricardo Arjona shared his perspective on the immigration policies of the President of the United States, Donald Trump, and held the Latin American leaders responsible for the difficult situation of those forced to emigrate in search of a better life.
In response to a question during the presentation of his new album "Seco" in Miami, Florida, Arjona stated that Trump "is treating our undocumented individuals poorly," but the strongest jab was directed at the Latin American governments.
"We need to start considering the responsibility of that group of shameless politicians, who have allowed our fellow citizens to endure humiliation elsewhere," he stated.
"All those corrupt individuals who steal everything and allow these things to happen," the artist added, who also attempted to respond by performing his song Mojado, in which he addresses the phenomenon of migration and its challenges.
Arjona: a master of poetry turned into song
Born on January 19, 1964, in the city of Jocotenango, Ricardo Arjona has built a career characterized by his ability to turn the everyday into unforgettable verses.
His talent for capturing emotions and narrating them in a unique style has positioned him as one of the most influential singer-songwriters in Latin music.
Over the years, despite facing critics, he has explored various genres while always maintaining the essence of his lyrics, which blend social criticism, love, and reflection with unmistakable depth.
Trump and his immigration policies
Since his return to the presidency in January 2025, Donald Trump has implemented a series of policies that have intensified measures against immigrants in the United States.
In his early days in office, he ordered immigration agencies to significantly increase deportations and arrests, as well as instructing border agents to summarily return migrants who cross the border illegally.
Additionally, among other measures, it deactivated the CBP One application, which was previously used to schedule border crossings; it ended humanitarian "parole" and indefinitely paused the refugee admission program, affecting countries like Ukraine and Afghanistan, and denying entry to 22,000 people who had already been approved following the required selection procedures.
Plans to restore the "Remain in Mexico" policy, which requires asylum seekers to wait in that territory while their cases are processed. In addition, military forces have been deployed at the border; the resumption of the border wall construction has been ordered; and plans are underway to send up to 30,000 deportees to the Guantanamo Naval Base.
It has also sought to eliminate the right to citizenship by birth through executive orders. However, this action faces legal challenges and has been blocked by the courts on the grounds of being unconstitutional.
Frequently asked questions about Ricardo Arjona's statements and Trump's immigration policies
What did Ricardo Arjona think about Trump's deportations?
Ricardo Arjona criticized Donald Trump's immigration policies, stating that the president "is behaving poorly towards our undocumented individuals." However, he also pointed out the responsibility of Latin American leaders, whom he described as "shameless," for the conditions that force many to emigrate. Arjona emphasized that the corrupt governments of Latin America bear significant responsibility for forced migration.
What immigration measures were implemented by Trump during his second term?
Since his return to the presidency in 2025, Donald Trump has intensified measures against immigrants, including increased deportations and arrests, the resumption of border wall construction, and the intention to eliminate birthright citizenship. Trump is also seeking to restore the "Remain in Mexico" policy and has deployed military forces at the border.
What agreements has Guatemala made with the United States regarding migrants?
Guatemala, under the leadership of President Bernardo Arévalo, has agreed to accept migrants of other nationalities deported from the United States. These migrants will subsequently be returned to their home countries at the expense of the U.S. This agreement also includes a 40% increase in flights for deported individuals.
How has Trump’s immigration policy affected the relationship with Colombia?
The relationship between the United States and Colombia has strained due to Colombian President Gustavo Petro's initial refusal to accept flights with deportees. In response, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Colombian imports, prompting Colombia to accept U.S. conditions to avoid a greater economic impact. The tensions reflect ideological differences and have raised international concerns.
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