Story perspectives

Venezuelan Migrants Return Home for Christmas Amid Hardship

12/26/2025

Summary

Story summary

Mariela Gómez and Abraham Castro returned to Maracay, Venezuela, for Christmas after abandoning U.S. journey due to immigration policies under U.S. President Donald Trump.
They faced unemployment and poverty on their first Christmas back in eight years.
Gómez expressed disappointment over their modest Christmas dinner, unable to afford hallacas.
Since President Trump returned to office, over 14,000 Venezuelan migrants reversed their migration, with many deported home.

History

Historical Context

Venezuela's economic crisis, exacerbated under Nicolás Maduro's presidency since 2013, has led to hyperinflation and mass emigration, with over 4 million fleeing by 2018. The U.S. government, under President Trump, enacted strict immigration policies, resulting in over 14,000 Venezuelans returning home, often facing poverty and unemployment, highlighting the ongoing struggles of repatriated migrants like Mariela Gómez and Abraham Castro.

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Story summary

Mariela Gómez and Abraham Castro returned to Maracay, Venezuela, for Christmas after abandoning U.S. journey due to immigration policies under U.S. President Donald Trump.
They faced unemployment and poverty on their first Christmas back in eight years.
Gómez expressed disappointment over their modest Christmas dinner, unable to afford hallacas.
Since President Trump returned to office, over 14,000 Venezuelan migrants reversed their migration, with many deported home.

1 / 2