Upon assuming office, U.S. President Donald Trump began deporting illegal immigrants residing in the United States, sending them back to their respective countries via flights. In one instance, Colombia refused to allow two U.S. aircraft carrying deportees to land.
In response, Trump threatened strict measures against Colombia, sparking widespread controversy. However, Colombia later agreed to comply with all of Trump’s demands, stating that it would accept all individuals who had entered the U.S. illegally.
Colombia further assured that it would not object to deportations conducted via U.S. military aircraft. Following this, the U.S. revoked the 25% tariff it had imposed on Colombian goods.
Trump’s Threats and Colombia’s Initial Stance
Earlier, Trump announced on social media that a 25% tariff would be imposed on all Colombian goods, which could increase to 50% within a week. Additionally, he declared that Colombian citizens would be denied entry into the U.S., including the issuance of visas.
Colombia retaliated by imposing a 25% tariff on U.S. goods. President Trump further accused Colombia of sending criminals to the U.S. illegally and insisted they were obligated to take them back. He also stated that Colombia’s refusal to allow the planes to land was a violation of international law.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro initially criticized the U.S., stating that there are rules and protocols to handle such matters. He condemned the U.S.’s treatment of refugees, calling it unjust and disrespectful.
“Refugees are not criminals. They should be treated with compassion. The U.S. failed to do this, which is why I sent back their military aircraft,” said Petro. He further clarified that he was prepared to repatriate Colombian refugees but demanded they be transported via civilian aircraft and not treated as criminals.
Resolution and U.S. Retaliation
Eventually, Colombia agreed to send its presidential aircraft to the U.S. to bring back the refugees. Petro, who had previously warned of increasing tariffs on U.S. goods to 50%, ultimately imposed a 25% tariff.
In response, the U.S. announced a temporary suspension of visa issuance for Colombian citizens. The American embassy in Bogotá was instructed to enforce this measure, with the U.S. stating that it would remain in effect until Colombia accepted the deported refugees.