Tensions build as Trump Administration cracks down on illegal immigration

CHICAGO -- The Trump Administration has intensified their efforts to crack down on illegal immigration considering major deportations operations underway across the U.S.

After a diplomatic standoff, Columbia has agreed to resume accepting U.S. deportation flights revising their earlier refusal.

This happened after tensions flared up between the two nations after Trump threatened to raise tariffs by 25 percent after they denied two U.S. military deportation flights.

Some analysts worry that the increase would require Americans to pay more money towards goods.

Trump's tough stance on immigration and deportation policies is putting pressure on U.S. allies like Colombia with growing international friction over immigration policies.

Flights are back on track across the country with over 1,000 undocumented immigrants arrested Sunday.

While community members and leaders argue that these raids are targeting law-abiding immigrants, Tom Horman with the Border Czar administration says they are focusing more on national security threats and public concerns.

“If you're in the country illegally, you're on the table because it's not okay to, you know, violate the laws of this country. That's why I'm hoping those who are in the country illegally, who have not been ordered removed by the federal judge, should leave," said Horman.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) continues operations, raising concerns with Chicago leaders that raids will include immigrants with no criminal record.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson voiced concerns about the impact of these actions on local law enforcement, saying their cooperation with ICE is limited to valid warrants and violent crimes.

“We fully support removing violent criminals from our streets, but we cannot support actions that harm law-abiding families and erode trust in our local government,” said Johnson.

Community leaders agree that the raids are creating fear, particularly in neighborhoods with high immigrant populations. 

Meanwhile, Chicago communities are left with uncertainty of what this means for their families and friends going forward.