The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has asked a federal judge to lift an order blocking the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Liberian national. In a motion filed on Friday, March 20, 2026, the government stated it is prepared to carry out the removal to Liberia.
The case is before U.S. District Court Judge Paula Xinis in Maryland. The initial order preventing the deportation was issued earlier, though the exact date was not specified in the recent court filing. The government's motion argues that the conditions for the stay of removal are no longer met.
Kilmar Abrego Garcia is part of a group of Liberian nationals who have been under a long-standing program allowing them to remain in the U.S. due to conditions in their home country. Recent policy shifts have sought to end these protections for some individuals, leading to legal challenges.
The judge has not yet ruled on the government's latest request. The outcome will determine whether Garcia can be deported or if he will be allowed to remain in the United States while his legal case continues.
