In a shocking turn of events, Guatemala’s President Bernardo Arévalo has firmly denied claims about any asylum deal with the United States, leaving many confused and asking, “What’s really going on?”
The news came after several reports suggested that the Central American country had signed a migration or asylum agreement with the U.S. to host people seeking refuge. But on Sunday, President Arévalo made it crystal clear—no such deal has been signed.
What Was Claimed?
Recent reports in both U.S. and Guatemalan media had hinted that Washington and Guatemala were discussing a possible “safe third country” agreement. This kind of deal would have allowed the U.S. to send asylum seekers—mostly from other countries like Haiti, Venezuela, and Cuba—to Guatemala while their asylum applications were being processed.
But President Arévalo slammed the rumors, saying these claims are completely false and misleading. He assured Guatemalans that his government would not agree to host asylum seekers from other countries without a proper plan or national consultation.
Why Is This So Important?
This issue has triggered major concern in Guatemala. Many citizens fear that such a deal would put extra pressure on their economy, increase security risks, and lead to a humanitarian crisis. Guatemala is already facing its own challenges, like poverty, corruption, and high migration rates. Hosting thousands of asylum seekers from other countries could make things worse.
President Arévalo also warned that foreign policy decisions should never be based on rumors, especially when they affect national security and people’s lives.
What Does the US Say?
So far, the U.S. government has not officially confirmed if it made any proposal or offer for such a deal. In past years, the U.S. has signed similar agreements with other countries like El Salvador and Honduras under the Trump administration—but most of them were later canceled.
Many believe this denial by President Arévalo is a strong message that Guatemala wants to protect its sovereignty and won’t be pressured into making secret deals with bigger nations.
