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Bahamas immigration authorities deported 15 Cubans who had entered the country irregularly.
The deportees arrived last Friday, February 21, at the "José Martí" Airport in Havana, aboard an aircraft from Bahamas Air, according to a statement from Cuba's Ministry of the Interior (MININT).
This is the tenth repatriation operation so far in 2025, with a total of 192 Cuban migrants returned to the island, noted the MININT.
This incident adds to other recent episodes in the region. On February 11, the United States repatriated 16 Cuban rafters intercepted at sea, following an unsuccessful attempt by the authorities to reach the shores of Florida.
The rustic boat, measuring 25 feet in length and bearing the inscription "Gloria de Dios" on its bow, carried men and women from the island, as seen in videos released by the United States Coast Guard (USCG).
These returns occur at a peak moment in the implementation of immigration policies by the administration of President Donald Trump, following his assumption of power for a second time on January 20.
The strategy of the new government is focused on stopping, at all costs, illegal immigration to the U.S. and protecting the country's borders and its citizens.
On the other hand, the significant deterioration of the quality of life in Cuba, due to the scarcity of basic products, rising inflation, and the limited availability of public services, has driven thousands of Cubans to seek alternatives outside the country, as many citizens feel compelled to leave the island in search of better opportunities, often risking their lives in perilous journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Deportation of Cuban Rafters from the Bahamas
How many Cuban rafters have been deported from the Bahamas in 2025?
In 2025, 34 Cuban rafters have been deported from the Bahamas, including the most recent operation on February 21, in which 15 Cuban citizens were returned. This situation reflects the ongoing effort of the Bahamas to manage the migratory crisis affecting the region.
What drives Cubans to emigrate illegally across the sea?
The deterioration of the quality of life in Cuba, due to the scarcity of basic products, the rise in inflation, and the limited availability of public services, drives many Cubans to seek better opportunities outside the country, often risking their lives in dangerous maritime journeys in search of a more promising future.
What is the position of the United States regarding the illegal immigration of Cuban rafters?
The administration of President Donald Trump has adopted a strategy focused on stopping illegal immigration to the U.S., strengthening borders and protecting the country's security. This has resulted in an increase in deportations of Cuban rafters intercepted at sea, as part of a broader policy of immigration control.
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