Challenges in Costs and Energy: Trump's Guantanamo Plan for Migrant Relocation Faces Obstacles

Plans by the US administration to establish a large detention center for illegal immigrants at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, are encountering significant challenges. According to reports, the proposal aims to detain approximately 30,000 of the most serious criminal illegal immigrants at this infamous military base.

Among the primary concerns are the financial implications. Transporting detainees to Guantanamo requires military flights, which are notably expensive. Reports indicate that the Pentagon estimates costs ranging from $207,000 to $249,000 for round trips, translating to $23,000 to $27,000 per detainee.

In addition to transportation costs, the facilities needed to house these 30,000 individuals have yet to be completed. Ongoing expenses for water, food, electricity, and salaries for additional military personnel further complicate the situation. Consequently, there are varying opinions within the government regarding the feasibility of using Guantanamo for accommodating such a large number of immigrants. Some officials suggest that alternative locations, such as Fort Bliss in Texas and other military installations within the United States, may be more cost-effective and efficient.

A scaled-back version of Trump's Guantanamo proposal appears to be a likely outcome, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

Despite the criticism surrounding this initiative, the White House has remained largely silent on the matter. A spokesperson stated that President Trump has received a clear mandate from the American public to implement his agenda focused on the mass deportation of illegal criminals. The administration remains committed to enforcing and respecting US immigration laws.

Recently, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth visited the Guantanamo military base, indicating ongoing efforts to advance the president's directive. In February, Trump announced his intention to detain 30,000 of the "worst criminal illegal immigrants" at Guantanamo, asserting that it is a location from which escape is highly improbable. This announcement was met with immediate backlash.

While Guantanamo Bay has historically held a small number of illegal immigrants awaiting deportation, Trump's plan seeks to significantly expand its capacity. The base is notorious for its detention facility established after the 9/11 attacks, where numerous individuals were held without trial. Human rights organizations have long advocated for its closure, yet a small number of detainees remain there to this day.