Trump Administration Explores Using Ships for Deportations

The Trump administration is considering using ships to transport illegal immigrants to countries including El Salvador and Venezuela, a plan that could shift deportation costs from the Department of Homeland Security to the Department of Defense. Discussions surrounding the proposal are preliminary, according to two U.S. officials. The potential use of ships as a deportation method could involve journeys lasting days and costing millions of dollars. Newsmax reported that the plan could offload deportation costs from DHS to the War Department. The New York Times first reported the discussions, noting the preliminary nature of the consideration. No center-leaning outlet reported this story.

Where they differ

• Newsmax emphasized the potential cost-shifting from DHS to the Department of Defense, a detail not highlighted by The New York Times.
• The New York Times led with the preliminary nature of the discussions, while Newsmax presented the information as a report without emphasizing the early stage of consideration.

Background

• The Trump administration previously pursued increased immigration raids and deportations, leading to multiple officer-involved shootings [Fact Refinery, 2026-10-08].
• The US Treasury Department recently imposed sanctions on Iran’s “shadow fleet” of oil tankers, aiming to disrupt oil exports and revenue [Fact Refinery, 2026-10-08].
• Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is a federal agency responsible for enforcing immigration laws within the United States [background knowledge].
• Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are associates of Donald Trump who were recently involved in Ukraine peace proposal discussions [Fact Refinery, 2026-10-08].

Our reading

Our reading is that the Trump administration is exploring unconventional and potentially costly methods for deporting individuals, seemingly prioritizing a demonstration of enforcement over fiscal responsibility. The limited reporting, particularly the absence of coverage from center-leaning outlets, suggests this proposal is either in a very early stage or is being intentionally circulated through specific media channels. The emphasis on cost-shifting from one department to another indicates a focus on budgetary maneuvering, rather than a comprehensive immigration strategy.

What to watch

• Whether the Department of Homeland Security and Department of Defense formally acknowledge and begin to budget for this proposal [Department of Defense/DHS press releases].
• If any contracts are issued for the leasing or purchase of ships for deportation purposes [Federal procurement databases].
• Whether the New York Times or other center-leaning outlets publish further reporting on the plan, indicating a shift from preliminary consideration to active planning [The New York Times/Associated Press].

Was this useful? 👍 0 👎 0

---

Read the original coverage