Trump Issues First Threat to Colombia from the White House

International Desk

Colombian President Gustavo Petro agreed to accept deported migrants aboard U.S. military planes following a heated exchange with U.S. President Donald Trump, who threatened steep tariffs on Colombian goods. The dispute began last week when Petro returned two U.S. planes, citing “inhumane” treatment of migrants.

Trump warned that if Colombia refused to allow U.S. military planes to land for deportations, he would impose a 25% tariff on Colombian exports, escalating to 50% within a week. He also announced potential financial sanctions, travel bans, and visa cancellations for Colombian officials.

The Trump administration later stated that sanctions and tariffs were “appropriately suspended” after Petro agreed to the terms. However, some measures, such as visa restrictions, would remain until the first deportation flight was completed.

Colombia’s Foreign Ministry said it had resolved the impasse with the U.S. and would accept all deportation flights under conditions ensuring “dignity” for the returnees.

In a social media post, Petro sharply criticized Trump, saying, “You dislike our freedom, fine. I will not shake hands with white slave hunters.”

Petro initially insisted Colombia would only receive migrants under respectful conditions and declared the country prepared to process deported citizens.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that Petro had initially approved the flight landings but revoked permission while the planes were airborne.

Two C-17 military transport planes from Travis Air Force Base were turned away mid-flight, one returning to San Diego and the other to Texas.