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Tens Of Thousands Fear Deportation as US-Cuba Relations Thaw

Photo Courtesy of Associated Press

Photo Courtesy of Associated Press

The future in the land of the free remains murky for tens of thousands of Cuban immigrants who have been ordered by immigration authorities to leave the country, despite the U.S. and Cuba taking steps at fully restoring diplomatic ties, including re-opening embassies for the first time in over half a century.

As many as 25,000 Cubans living in the United States have outstanding deportation orders, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. They include people who pose a threat to national security or have criminal convictions. This individuals are considered priorities for immigration enforcement agents.

Despite these immigrants being an enforcement priority, the have yet to be sent back to Cuba because the government of President Raul Castro hasn’t given them permission to return. It’s unclear whether the Cuban government’s position will change anytime soon.