United States President Donald Trump has imposed emergency tariffs and a travel ban on Colombian officials after Colombia refused two flights carrying repatriated migrants.
The measures, announced on Trump’s Truth Social platform, include 25% tariffs on Colombian goods entering the US, escalating to 50% within a week. Colombian nationals and cargo will also face increased border checks. Trump accused Colombia of jeopardizing US national security by defying its “legal obligations” to accept deported migrants.
In response, Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced retaliatory 25% tariffs on US imports, vowing to resist what he described as US economic intimidation. Petro criticized Trump for his policies, pledging that Colombia would not back down under pressure.
The sanctions mark a significant strain in US-Colombian relations, with trade between the two nations valued at $39.2 billion in 2022. The dispute underscores the growing tensions over migration and international diplomacy.