In a significant escalation of his immigration crackdown, U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday announced sanctions and tariffs against Colombia following its refusal to accept deportation flights. The measures include a 25% tariff on Colombian goods, set to rise to 50% within a week. Trump also revoked visas for Colombian officials and allies of President Gustavo Petro, alongside introducing stricter airport scrutiny for Colombians entering the U.S.
“These measures are just the beginning,” Trump stated on Truth Social. “We will not allow the Colombian Government to violate its legal obligations with regard to the acceptance and return of the criminals they forced into the United States.”
This marks a stark shift in relations with Colombia, traditionally a close ally of the U.S. in Latin America.
Colombian President Petro’s Defiant Response
Colombian President Gustavo Petro, elected in 2022 as the country’s first left-wing leader, firmly opposed the deportation flights. In a series of posts on X, Petro insisted that deported Colombians must be treated with dignity.
“The United States cannot treat Colombian migrants as criminals. I forbid entry to our territory to U.S. planes carrying Colombian migrants,” Petro wrote.
Petro also claimed to have denied landing rights to two U.S. military planes. He suggested that Colombia would be willing to send its presidential plane to transport deportees “with dignity” and allow civilian flights for the purpose, as long as migrants are not restrained like criminals.
Additionally, Petro highlighted the presence of over 15,600 undocumented Americans living in Colombia, calling on them to regularize their status but ruling out mass deportation raids.
Tariffs and Visa Bans
Trump’s announcement includes a 25% tariff on Colombian imports, potentially rising to 50% within a week. While questions remain about the legality of these tariffs under the existing U.S.-Colombia free trade agreement, the move signals Trump’s determination to pressure Colombia.
Furthermore, Trump has revoked visas for Colombian officials and allies of Petro’s government. Stricter checks on Colombian travelers at U.S. airports are also being implemented.
Broader Diplomatic Implications
This diplomatic standoff unfolds days before Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s inaugural trip to Latin America. Rubio’s itinerary notably excludes Colombia, reflecting strained relations.
Colombia’s response indicates a potential shift in its relationship with Washington, as Petro emphasized dignity and mutual respect in handling migration issues.
Conclusion
As the standoff continues, the tensions highlight deeper disagreements over immigration policies between the U.S. and Colombia. With both nations unwilling to back down, the outcome could reshape their historically close alliance.
