Story perspectives

Tragic Drownings Highlight Migrant Crisis on New Route

11/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 2025, two children drowned on a migrant route from Panama to South America created after border restrictions by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The first incident involved an 8-year-old Venezuelan boy whose family’s boat capsized.
Since early 2025, over 14,000 migrants have used this route, avoiding the Darien Gap.
Panamanian authorities monitor boats at checkpoints before they proceed toward Colombia, and fishermen operate the route for about $300 per person.

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Story summary

In 2025, two children drowned on a migrant route from Panama to South America created after border restrictions by U.S. President Donald Trump.
The first incident involved an 8-year-old Venezuelan boy whose family’s boat capsized.
Since early 2025, over 14,000 migrants have used this route, avoiding the Darien Gap.
Panamanian authorities monitor boats at checkpoints before they proceed toward Colombia, and fishermen operate the route for about $300 per person.