White House Secures Colombia’s Commitment to Accept Deported Migrants Following Trump Tariff Clash

The White House declared a significant achievement following tensions with Colombia over the deportation of migrants from the United States. This development came just hours after President Donald Trump threatened to impose steep tariffs and other sanctions on the South American nation.

On Sunday, a clash between the U.S. and Colombia revealed the complexities of their long-standing partnership, particularly amid the Trump administration’s strict immigration policies. The confrontation served as a cautionary tale for other countries considering involvement in U.S. immigration enforcement issues.

Trump’s administration responded vigorously after Colombian President Gustavo Petro rejected the arrival of two U.S. military aircraft carrying deported migrants. The U.S. president ordered visa restrictions and a potential 25% tariff on all Colombian imports, a measure that could escalate to 50% within a week, signaling a hardline stance against noncompliance.

In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump emphasized the necessity of these actions, claiming Colombia’s decision to block deportations “jeopardized” U.S. national security. He asserted that no country could disregard its obligations regarding deportations.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt later stated that Colombia had agreed to all terms set by Trump, including the acceptance of deported individuals from the U.S. without limitation. While the tariffs would be held “in reserve,” she noted that enhanced customs inspections and visa restrictions on Colombian officials would remain until the first deportation flight successfully landed.

The Colombian government responded positively, with Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo announcing they had reached an agreement with the U.S. and would continue to welcome returning citizens with dignity. He reiterated the commitment to treat deportees fairly while indicating that their presidential aircraft would be utilized to assist in the repatriation process.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio revealed he had authorized visa restrictions on Colombian officials who interfered with deportation flights. This action came in conjunction with the State Department’s suspension of visa processing in Bogotá.

Petro had previously insisted that his government would not accept deportation flights until the U.S. could guarantee the humane treatment of migrants. On social media, he voiced concerns about the treatment of migrants being transported back to Colombia.

This diplomatic incident is indicative of a broader deterioration in U.S.-Colombia relations. Traditionally, Colombia has stood as a key ally in Latin America. However, under Petro—who represents Colombia’s first leftist administration—the bilateral connection has faced ideological challenges.

Colombia has accepted approximately 475 deportation flights from the U.S. between 2020 and 2024, highlighting the complexity of managing migrant flows. Recent data indicates that Colombians have increasingly emerged at the U.S.-Mexico border, making up a significant percentage of illegal crossings.

Despite their longstanding trade relationship, Colombia’s willingness to accept deported migrants has become a contentious issue. The U.S. continues to navigate this delicate situation amid ongoing immigration reform discussions and security considerations.

This evolving landscape underscores the strategic implications for both nations, as they seek to balance national interests with humanitarian concerns. The next steps in this diplomatic saga will likely shape the future of U.S.-Colombia relations and the broader regional response to the immigration crisis.

Contributions to this report came from Regina Garcia Cano in Venezuela, Zeke Miller in Washington, and several Associated Press writers across the United States.