Trump opens the door for immigration talks with Democrats but rules out amnesty for undocumented immigrants

US President Donald Trump has indicated that he is open to reaching an immigration agreement with Democratic lawmakers but has ruled out granting amnesty to undocumented immigrants, saying individuals must follow established legal procedures.

Speaking to journalists during an impromptu press conference at the White House on November 10, Trump offered few details about the possible agreement, including who could qualify, what changes could be introduced or when negotiations might take place.

Also read: Trump admits deportation drive may have been too tough, offers immigration deal to Democrats


Asked whether he could reach an immigration deal with Democrats, Trump said: "We're not going to have amnesty or anything."

He maintained that immigrants must follow the existing legal pathways, arguing that allowing people to bypass established procedures would be unfair to others who comply with immigration requirements.

The US President did not outline any specific legislative proposals or concessions that his administration might consider as part of a bipartisan agreement.

During the exchange, Trump was also asked about the role of senior adviser Stephen Miller, a key figure in his administration's immigration policy. Trump praised Miller's work and suggested that he could engage constructively with Democratic lawmakers.

Also read: US midterms: Trump leaves the door ajar for Democrats on immigration

"He's smart, he's tough, he's fair, and he actually will get along, I think, very well with the Democrats," Trump said.

His remarks come as the possibility of bipartisan cooperation also featured in discussions about a separate permitting bill expected to face a legislative vote.

Trump expressed strong support for the proposed legislation, describing it as a bipartisan measure backed by both Republicans and Democrats.

"The permitting bill is a great bill that's supposed to be bipartisan. We -- we are behind it 100 per cent," he said.

However, he ruled out approving wind turbines when asked whether his support for the legislation would extend to wind energy projects. "No, I will not approve wind turbines," he said.

The press conference also covered US military operations in Venezuela and Iran, with Trump defending Secretary of War Pete Hegseth against criticism and praising his handling of the operations.

Trump claimed that the operation in Venezuela had been completed in 48 minutes without any fatalities. He also described the military campaign against Iran as successful, asserting that the country's naval and air capabilities had been neutralised.

On Cuba, Trump described the country's situation as deteriorating and said the US was providing humanitarian assistance, but offered no specific details about possible future action.

While Trump's comments signal a willingness to discuss immigration with Democrats, his rejection of amnesty leaves the scope of any potential agreement unclear.