The Trump administration defended its decision not to recall deportation flights of hundreds of suspected Venezuelan gang members by claiming that the specific instruction to do so was not included in the formal written order from a federal judge. The administration also argued that the judge’s authority to compel the planes to return to the United States expired once they entered international airspace. However, the judge questioned the administration’s logic and the White House’s attitude towards court orders. The dispute arose after the president invoked the Alien Enemies Act of 1798 to deport Venezuelans without normal due process, and despite a temporary restraining order issued by the judge. The administration is now required to provide more information to the judge.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/mar/17/trump-judge-venezuela-deportations