US President Donald Trump announced a series of retaliatory measures, including a 25% “emergency tariff” on Colombian imports, after Colombian President Gustavo Petro blocked US military deportation flights. The move marks an escalation in tensions between the two nations over migration policies.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump criticized Petro’s decision to deny entry to two US repatriation flights carrying deported migrants, calling it a threat to US national security. “This order was given by Colombia’s Socialist President Gustavo Petro, who is already very unpopular among his people. Petro’s denial of these flights has jeopardized the National Security and Public Safety of the United States,” Trump wrote.
As part of his response, Trump announced:
- A 25% tariff on all Colombian imports, which will increase to 50% after a week.
- A travel ban and immediate visa revocations for Colombian government officials and their allies.
- Visa sanctions on supporters, family members, and members of Petro’s party.
Trump hinted at further measures, stating, “These actions are just the beginning. The Colombian government must fulfill its legal obligations to accept the return of criminals they forced into the United States.”
Earlier, President Petro defended his decision to block the flights, asserting that Colombia would not accept the return of its citizens under the current conditions. “The US cannot treat Colombian migrants as criminals. I deny the entry of American planes carrying Colombian migrants into our territory. The United States must establish a protocol for the dignified treatment of migrants before we receive them,” Petro said.
The Colombian president also emphasized the need for better US protocols regarding the humane treatment of migrants, adding that the current process was unacceptable.
The emergency tariffs are expected to significantly impact Colombia’s export-dependent economy, which relies on trade with the United States. The proposed increase to 50% tariffs after a week adds further pressure on Colombia to comply with US demands.
Additionally, the visa restrictions targeting government officials and their allies could strain diplomatic relations further.
This dispute underscores the challenges in managing migration policies between nations. Trump’s actions highlight his administration’s firm stance on enforcing immigration laws and holding other nations accountable for accepting deportees.
The escalating conflict also reflects broader tensions between the US and Colombia, as both leaders grapple with balancing domestic and international expectations regarding migration.
