Colombia Agrees to U.S. Deportation Flights After Tariff Threats

Colombian President Gustavo Petro reversed his decision to block U.S. military deportation flights following intense pressure from President Donald Trump, including threats of steep tariffs and sanctions. Petro initially denied entry to two U.S. military planes carrying deportees, citing concerns over the treatment of migrants. However, after a heated exchange between the two leaders, Colombia agreed to accept deportation flights, provided the process ensures “dignity and respect” for the deportees.

President Trump’s administration responded by placing the threatened tariffs and sanctions “on hold” but maintained that visa restrictions would remain until Colombia received its first group of deportees. Trump said that this move demonstrated renewed respect for America globally, while Petro’s government announced it had “overcome the impasse” with the U.S.

With the U.S. being Colombia’s largest trading partner, Trump’s threats of a 25% tariff on Colombian imports, including key exports like coffee and crude oil, underscored the stakes.

The clash also revealed Petro’s critique of U.S. policies, calling for fair treatment of deportees while condemning heavy-handed approaches.

Previously, Mexico blocked a U.S. military deportation flight due to a paperwork issue and miscommunication, delaying plans to return illegal immigrants. While two flights to Guatemala proceeded, Mexico reaffirmed its refusal to accept non-Mexican asylum seekers under the U.S. “Remain in Mexico” program.

In response to a question about Belize’s stance, Prime Minister John Briceño firmly rejected the idea of accepting non-Belizean deportees, stating, “We are a sovereign nation, and they cannot force us to accept people that are not citizens of this country.” While Belize is open to welcoming returning Belizean citizens, Briceño stressed that the country will not bow to U.S. pressures to serve as a third-country refuge for non-citizens.