Trump Admin Expands Offshore Deportation Strategy to Costa Rica

State Department plans $7.85 million transfer to support Costa Rican removal operations

WASHINGTON — The U.S. State Department is planning to spend up to $7.85 million to help Costa Rica deport migrants, according to a document reviewed by Reuters, marking a new phase in the Trump administration’s efforts to curb migration through regional partnerships.

The funding, drawn from the State Department’s economic support fund—typically reserved for development programs in allied nations—will be transferred to the Department of Homeland Security. DHS will coordinate with Costa Rican authorities to conduct deportations, though a timeline has not been disclosed.

“The Department intends to support the Government of Costa Rica in conducting deportation operations of migrants that do not have international protections or other legal grounds to remain,” the document reads. The plan includes providing air transportation, technical advice, and logistical support for the deportation process.