US President Donald Trump announced sweeping tariffs and sanctions against Colombia on Sunday, following the country’s refusal to accept deportation flights carrying migrants.
This decision marks Trump’s first major action since returning to office, reinforcing his tough stance on immigration.
Trump stated that a 25% tariff would be imposed on Colombian goods, set to escalate to 50% within a week. Additionally, he announced an immediate travel ban for Colombian government officials and increased scrutiny for Colombian nationals at US airports.
“These measures are just the beginning, 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!” Trump declared on his Truth Social platform, emphasizing that Colombia must adhere to its legal obligations regarding the return of deported individuals.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro responded by blocking US military planes from landing, asserting that migrants should not be treated as criminals. In retaliation, Petro announced a 25% tariff on US imports, escalating the trade tensions between the two nations.
As tensions rise, both leaders remain firm in their positions, with Trump’s administration facing potential backlash from Latin American governments regarding its immigration policies.
