In a significant escalation of tensions between the United States and Colombia, President Donald Trump has announced the imposition of 25% tariffs on all goods entering the US from Colombia.
This move comes in response to Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s decision to deny entry to two US military planes carrying deported migrants.
Petro, who took to his official X page to announce the decision, emphasized that the US President, Donald Trump must establish a protocol for the dignified treatment of migrants before Colombia would accept them.
He stated, “The US cannot treat Colombian migrants as criminals. We must prioritize their humane treatment and dignity.”
The US had planned to deport a group of migrants on two military planes from San Diego, but the plans were scrapped due to complications.
Donald Trump, in a post on Truth Social, condemned Petro’s decision, stating that the US would not tolerate Colombia’s violation of its legal obligations regarding the acceptance and return of migrants.
The tariffs, which will be implemented immediately, are set to increase to 50% within a week.
Additionally, the US will impose a travel ban and immediate visa revocations on Colombian government officials, as well as visa sanctions on Colombian government supporters.
Enhanced customs and border protection inspections will also be conducted on all Colombian nationals and cargo on national security grounds.
This development marks a significant deterioration in US-Colombia relations, which have been strained in recent years.
During his presidential campaign, President Donald Trump had vowed to carry out mass deportations of illegal migrants, and his administration has taken a hardline stance on immigration.
The imposition of tariffs on Colombia is likely to have significant economic implications for both countries.
