US President Donald Trump has announced a series of punitive measures against Colombia following the Colombian government’s refusal to accept two flights transporting deported migrants. Trump, citing national security concerns, described Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s decision as a threat to the US. He declared on his social media platform, Truth Social, that these actions—initially tariffs, travel bans, and visa restrictions—are merely the starting point.
In a retaliatory move, President Petro announced an increase in import tariffs on US goods, emphasising that Colombia would not accept deportation flights until the US establishes a respectful protocol for migrants. Petro asserted that migrants should not be treated as criminals, insisting that Colombia would only accept them on civilian flights without the use of restraints. He highlighted Colombia’s history of accepting deportation flights from the US, having received hundreds in recent years.
Trump’s directive includes 25% tariffs on Colombian imports, set to escalate to 50% rapidly, alongside immediate visa sanctions affecting Colombian government officials and their supporters. He also mentioned that all Colombian entrants into the US would face stringent customs inspections. The tensions represent a significant escalation in US-Colombia relations as both leaders navigate the complexities of immigration and national security concerns.