Trump imposes 25% tariffs on Colombia as deported migrant flights denied
President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on Colombian imports on Sunday. This move came after Colombia stopped U.S. military flights deporting migrants. It’s Trump’s first use of economic pressure to enforce his immigration policies since taking office last week.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro quickly fired back. He raised tariffs on U.S. goods by 25% and criticized Trump in a social media post. Petro claimed, “I won’t let Colombians be flown in handcuffs.” He also left the door open for civilian deportation flights.
Trump responded by escalating measures. He announced a 50% tariff increase within a week, a travel ban for Colombians, and visa cancellations for Colombian officials and allies. Trump declared, “We won’t let Colombia avoid its obligations to take back their criminals.”
Colombia’s refusal to accept repatriation flights has sparked a major clash. The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá suspended visa processing, affecting thousands of daily applications. Secretary of State Rubio accused Petro of authorizing the flights but canceling them mid-air. Petro denied this, stating, “This wasn’t my directive.”
The U.S. began using military planes for deportations last week, including flights to Guatemala. Other countries, like Brazil, have also criticized U.S. deportation methods.
Economists warn that the tariffs could increase costs for American consumers, especially for coffee and other Colombian imports. Colombian trade leaders called for dialogue, urging both nations to avoid escalating the conflict further.
This tense standoff highlights the challenges of balancing immigration policies with international diplomacy.
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