WASHINGTON/BOGOTÁ: Colombia has turned away two U.S. military aircraft carrying migrants being deported as part of President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement. Colombian President Gustavo Petro condemned the move, calling it an unjust treatment of migrants.
In a statement on social media platform X, Petro asserted, “The U.S. cannot treat Colombian migrants as criminals.” He emphasized that deported Colombians would be welcomed back on civilian flights, ensuring dignity and respect. Petro also pointed out that 15,660 Americans in Colombia lack proper immigration status, adding weight to his critique of U.S. immigration practices.
Broader Latin American Reactions
This is the second instance of a Latin American country rejecting U.S. military deportation flights. Just last week, Mexico refused to allow a U.S. military plane carrying deported migrants to land.
Brazil has also criticized the U.S.’s deportation methods. On Saturday, Brazil’s foreign ministry condemned the “degrading treatment” of its citizens deported from the U.S. A commercial charter flight carrying 88 Brazilian deportees, 16 U.S. security agents, and eight crew members arrived with reports of mistreatment during the flight.
Upon landing in Belo Horizonte, Brazilian authorities demanded the removal of handcuffs from the deportees and facilitated their onward travel using a Brazilian Air Force flight.
The Role of U.S. Military Aircraft in Deportations
The deployment of U.S. military aircraft for deportation purposes follows Trump’s recent national emergency declaration on immigration. While military planes have been used for relocations in the past—such as during the 2021 Afghanistan withdrawal—this marks a rare case of their use for deporting migrants.
Two such flights carrying 80 migrants each were sent to Guatemala on Friday. However, the practice is now drawing increasing resistance across Latin America, with nations like Colombia, Mexico, and Brazil voicing strong opposition.
Implications of Growing Criticism
The backlash highlights a broader Latin American dissatisfaction with U.S. immigration policies, particularly under Trump’s administration. Petro’s emphasis on human dignity and mutual respect has resonated across the region, further challenging the U.S.’s approach to mass deportations.
As more countries push back, the U.S. may face increasing diplomatic challenges in enforcing its immigration policies using military resources.