Trump’s Tough Stance Forces Colombia To Accept Deportation Flights

Facing mounting pressure from the United States, Colombia has agreed to comply with President Donald Trump’s demands to accept deportation flights, avoiding significant trade penalties. The White House confirmed the decision late Sunday, stating that the proposed tariffs on Colombian goods will not be implemented for now.

The standoff began when Colombian President Gustavo Petro ordered officials to deny entry to flights carrying deported nationals. In response, Trump swiftly announced a set of economic sanctions, including a 25% tariff on all Colombian imports, with a warning that it could double within days if the situation was not resolved.

Following intense negotiations, Colombia reversed course, agreeing to receive deportees without restrictions. The White House stated that Colombian officials conceded to all U.S. terms, ensuring that deportation flights would not face further obstacles.

While the threat of tariffs has been lifted, the administration has made it clear that border inspections for Colombian goods will remain in place until deportation flights are confirmed to be operating smoothly.

Colombian authorities have arranged for their presidential plane to assist in the return of citizens, an effort seen as a means to save face after the public dispute with the Trump administration.

Meetings between U.S. and Colombian officials are expected to take place in the coming days to formalize agreements and discuss future cooperation on immigration matters.