Colombian President Gustavo Petro quickly reversed his refusal to accept deportation flights from the U.S. after President Donald Trump threatened tariffs and other actions.
The White House confirmed Petro agreed to all of Trump’s terms, including taking back Colombian migrants on U.S. military aircraft without delay. A statement added that sanctions and tariffs would stay on hold unless Colombia failed to comply. Visa restrictions and enhanced inspections would remain in place until the first deportation flight was completed.
“Today’s events make clear to the world that America is respected again,” the statement declared. “President Trump will continue to protect our nation’s sovereignty.”
Earlier Sunday, Petro folded after Trump warned of severe consequences. Petro even offered his presidential plane to bring deported migrants back to Colombia. In a statement translated from Spanish, Petro’s government promised to ensure a “dignified return” for deported Colombians.
Trump, speaking to Fox News, said Petro did an immediate about-face after the tariff threat. Petro initially rejected the flights, saying Colombian migrants should not be treated as criminals. “I deny the entry of American planes carrying Colombian migrants,” Petro stated.
Trump responded with threats of a 25% tariff on Colombian goods, set to rise to 50% after one week. He also announced a travel ban, visa revocations for Colombian officials, and potential further measures. “We will not allow Colombia to violate its obligations,” Trump warned.
U.S. officials acted quickly, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio imposing visa restrictions on those interfering with deportation operations. Customs and Border Protection began enhanced inspections of flights and cargo from Colombia. These measures would continue until Colombia complied.
Petro retaliated by threatening his own tariffs on U.S. imports, raising them from 25% to 50%. He urged Colombia to redirect its exports away from the U.S., escalating the standoff. “I do the same,” Petro said in response to Trump’s tariff hikes.
Amid the clash, Speaker Mike Johnson backed Trump, warning other nations to cooperate with U.S. deportation policies. “President Trump is putting America first, and Congress stands ready to support his agenda,” Johnson declared.