Deportation doubts cloud future of Cubans in US

The future is murky for tens of thousands of Cuban immigrants who have been ordered by authorities to leave the United States.

The doubts come as the two countries inch closer to fully restoring diplomatic ties, including reopening embassies for the first time in 54 years. As many as 25,000 Cubans living in the US have deportation orders outstanding, according to Immigration and Customs Enforcement. They include people who pose a threat to national security or have serious criminal convictions.

Despite being an enforcement priority, these immigrants have not yet been sent back to Cuba because the government of President Raul Castro has not given them permission to return.