Kristi Noem, appointed by President Donald Trump as the United States Secretary of Homeland Security, has conducted an official visit to the Guantánamo Bay Naval Base located in the southeastern tip of Cuba. During her visit, she issued stern warnings to migrants contemplating illegal entry into the U.S.
Speaking from the base, which is infamous for holding high-risk detainees, Noem asserted, "President Donald Trump has been clear from the start that illegal criminals have no place in our country. He’s fulfilling his promise." She highlighted that the facility is reserved for detaining illegal immigrants deemed to pose significant threats, labeling them as "the worst of the worst."
This visit coincides with the Trump administration's recent decision to expand Guantánamo's capacity to house up to 30,000 migrants—a move that has sparked controversy and criticism from human rights groups. The expansion is part of broader efforts by the government to bolster border security and impose stricter immigration policies.
These policy measures include authorizing immigration authorities to detain migrants for minor offenses even before convictions and revoking temporary protected status for certain migrant groups. In line with these policies, the U.S. government has begun relocating detained migrants to Guantánamo.
The initial flight carrying migrants arrested within the U.S. recently landed at the facility, with more transfers expected in the coming weeks. Additionally, a second flight carrying Venezuelan migrants to Guantánamo underscores the Trump administration's strategy for handling migrant detentions at this site.
According to Homeland Security Secretary Noem, the flight included "dangerous criminals," described as "Venezuelan gang members." She detailed that "some of their crimes include: confessed murder, wanted in Venezuela for jail escape and aggravated robbery with a weapon/attempted murder, arms trafficking, theft, distribution of hazardous drugs, assault, and identity fraud."
Previously serving as the Governor of South Dakota from 2019 to 2025, Noem has led extensive operations targeting undocumented immigrants with criminal backgrounds. In January 2025, she spearheaded a series of operations in New York, advocating for the authorities' actions with controversial remarks that sparked outrage across various sectors.
Implications of Migrant Detentions at Guantánamo
What is the purpose of expanding Guantánamo's capacity?
The expansion aims to accommodate up to 30,000 migrants as part of the Trump administration's strategy to enhance border security and enforce stricter immigration policies.
Why are migrants being transferred to Guantánamo?
Migrants are being relocated to Guantánamo as part of policy measures to detain those considered significant threats, with the facility being used for its capacity to hold high-risk individuals.
What types of crimes are associated with detained migrants?
Detained migrants have been linked to serious offenses such as confessed murder, armed robbery, drug distribution, assault, and identity fraud.