The Trump administration is seeking to remove more foreigners from its territory by expelling them to third countries, primarily in Africa. According to an RFI investigation published on September 22, 2026, Washington is conducting discreet negotiations with these African states to secure their cooperation.
This quid pro quo diplomacy relies on a range of levers: funding, visas, trade, aid, and diplomatic support. Over six months, RFI investigated within a consortium of 24 international media outlets coordinated by Forbidden Stories, drawing on internal documents, timelines, and testimonies.
Lawyers, diplomats, and human rights organizations condemn this system in which the reception of expelled migrants becomes a “bargaining chip.” These countries agree to receive expelled migrants in exchange for various benefits, illustrating an opaque and controversial negotiation led by Washington.
