The Ecuadorian government is managing the repatriation of four nationals who were transferred to the Democratic Republic of Congo from the United States after seeking asylum, according to official statements from the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility.
The individuals were among a group of migrants deported by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under a bilateral agreement between the United States and the Democratic Republic of Congo, which allows for the transfer of non-citizens to third countries under certain migration protocols.
Initial reports from Ecuador’s Chancellery indicated that only one Ecuadorian had been transferred on April 15, 2026, after expressing a desire not to be returned to Ecuador. However, subsequent updates clarified that two additional nationals were also part of the transfer, bringing the total to three confirmed cases by April 18, 2026.
Later confirmation from Ecuadorian authorities established that a fourth Ecuadorian was among those transferred, making the total number of compatriots involved in the operation four. All individuals are reported to be in migratory regular status in the Democratic Republic of Congo and are residing in a hotel in Kinshasa, the capital city.
The Ecuadorian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has stated that We see conducting individual interviews with each of the four nationals to determine whether they wish to return to Ecuador voluntarily. Any return would be processed only upon the explicit and voluntary request of the individual, in accordance with international migration protocols.
The transfers occurred in the context of a broader U.S. Migration strategy that includes agreements with several African nations to accept deportees. The Democratic Republic of Congo formally announced its agreement with the United States to receive deported individuals in April 2026, joining other countries such as Eswatini and Equatorial Guinea that have accepted similar arrangements.
Officials from the Congolese Directorate General of Migration have confirmed that the Ecuadorian nationals are being treated in accordance with international standards and have access to basic necessities during their stay. The government of Ecuador has maintained communication with both U.S. And Congolese authorities to monitor the situation and ensure the rights of its citizens are upheld.
As of the latest available information, no formal timeline has been established for the potential return of the four individuals to Ecuador. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs continues to assess each case individually and will provide updates as consultations progress.
The situation highlights the increasing use of third-country transfer agreements in U.S. Immigration enforcement and raises questions about due process and asylum access for migrants undergoing expedited removal procedures.
For official updates on consular assistance and repatriation processes, Ecuadorian citizens abroad are advised to contact the nearest Ecuadorian embassy or consulate, or visit the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Human Mobility.
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