Judges Halt Trump's Use of Wartime Law to Remove Venezuelan Gang Members

A federal appeals court says the Trump administration went too far in trying to use a 1798 wartime law to speed up migrant deportations. The 5th Circuit ruled 2-1 that the Alien Enemies Act was meant for declared wars, not for cracking down on gangs like Venezuela’s Tren de Aragua.

For now, deportations under that law are blocked in Texas, Louisiana, and Mississippi.

The White House had argued the gang is backed by Venezuela’s government and posed a threat through illegal migration and violent crime. Some detainees were even sent to a massive prison in El Salvador, where officials argued U.S. courts couldn’t intervene. The majority opinion dismissed those claims, saying the situation didn’t amount to an “invasion” under the law.

Judge Andrew Oldham, a Trump appointee, blasted the ruling, saying courts have always given presidents leeway on national security. He called the majority’s decision unprecedented and dangerous. The case is likely headed for the Supreme Court, which will have the final say.