President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on Colombian imports after President Gustavo Petro blocked two U.S. military flights carrying deported Colombian nationals. Trump warned of increasing tariffs to 50% if the issue is not resolved and imposed travel bans and visa sanctions on Colombian officials.
President Petro justified his decision by criticizing the use of military aircraft for deportations and expressing concerns over the treatment of deportees. He proposed using civilian planes and offered his presidential aircraft for repatriation to ensure dignity for returnees.
The escalating tensions have led Colombia to consider retaliatory tariffs on U.S. goods, further straining relations. This incident reflects broader regional concerns over U.S. deportation policies and could have significant economic and diplomatic repercussions for both nations.