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The number of Cubans who illegally crossed the borders of the United States in April 2025 dropped drastically to only 130 people, according to the latest data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). This figure reflects a significant decrease compared to previous months and previous years.
According to the report by CBP, the crossing of Cuban migrants through the land borders of the U.S. has shown a downward trend during the fiscal year 2025, especially when considering the previous months.
In March 2025, the number of illegal crossings was 132 and in February, 150 were reported. This decrease sharply contrasts with the records from fiscal year 2024, when in April, 17,873 illegal crossings of Cuban citizens were counted.
Compared to previous years, the decrease is even more significant. During the same month in fiscal year 2023, there were 9,465 illegal crossings by Cubans, while in 2022, the figure rose to 35,092.
The migration behavior at the southwest border of the U.S. also shows a similar trend. The data reveals that, in April 2025, the total number of migrant encounters in this area was 12,035, a figure significantly lower compared to the 179,737 recorded in April 2024.
The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, celebrated on X the decrease in border detentions, attributing it to the leadership of President Donald Trump.
"Detentions at the border between the United States and Mexico have plummeted by 93% under President Donald Trump’s administration, according to new data from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection released on Monday," he wrote.
Operational Control: At the Entry Point and Inside
CBP has implemented a new strategy for categorizing apprehensions in two strategic areas: At the Point of Entry and In the Interior. This classification provides a clearer view of how operational control is being exercised both in border areas and within the country.
The Entry Point refers to the interdictions along the border or during the transit of an illegal migrant towards their intended destinations. These are the frontline areas where CBP has already observed a significant decrease in crossing attempts, thanks to the deterrence and enforcement sustained by the immigration policy of the current U.S. administration.
In the Interior encompasses all operations beyond those corridors. It includes broader operations aimed at disrupting illegal activity wherever it occurs, making communities throughout the United States safer.
A clear example of the application domestically is the Black Tide Operation, the largest joint immigration operation in Florida's history. Conducted in late April with the support of CBP, resulting in 1,120 arrests in just one week.
According to the breakdown for April 2025, the Border Patrol recorded 8,383 apprehensions along the southwest border, with 906 classified as interior. This represents a decrease of 93% compared to the 128,895 apprehensions recorded in April 2024.
On average, 279 apprehensions were made per day, including 30 indoors, representing a decrease from 4,297 per day a year ago.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Decrease in Illegal Crossings of Cubans to the U.S. in 2025
Why has the number of Cubans crossing illegally into the U.S. decreased in 2025?
The decrease in illegal crossings of Cubans to the U.S. in 2025 is mainly due to the more restrictive immigration policies implemented by the Donald Trump administration. These policies have significantly tightened border controls and limited irregular entry routes, contributing to a drastic decline in crossings.
What are the figures for illegal crossings of Cubans in 2025 compared to previous years?
In April 2025, only 130 Cubans crossed the U.S. border illegally, representing a significant decrease compared to the 17,873 crossings in April 2024. This downward trend continued throughout fiscal year 2025, with much lower figures month after month compared to previous years.
What impact have Donald Trump's policies had on the border security of the U.S.?
Donald Trump's policies have led to a drastic reduction in illegal crossings at the southwest border of the U.S., reaching historic levels of security, according to the administration. This impact is reflected in the 93% decrease in border apprehensions and a more effective operational control.
What role has the cancellation of humanitarian parole played in Cuban migration?
The cancellation of the humanitarian parole has significantly contributed to the decrease in illegal crossings of Cubans to the U.S., as this program previously provided a legal pathway to enter the country. Its suspension has left many Cubans without clear legal options for emigration.
What alternatives do Cubans have in the face of stricter immigration policies in the U.S.?
In light of stricter immigration policies, Cubans in the U.S. may consider regularizing their status through the Cuban Adjustment Act, which allows them to apply for permanent residency after one year of entering with parole. This law remains a viable option for those looking to establish themselves legally in the country.
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