Trump Halts Tariffs After Colombia Agrees To Accept Deportees

After facing the threat of significant economic penalties from the United States, Colombia has agreed to allow deportation flights to resume, marking a major victory for President Donald Trump’s immigration agenda. The White House confirmed late Sunday that tariffs on Colombian goods would not be implemented after the country agreed to U.S. demands.

President Gustavo Petro initially refused to accept deported Colombian nationals aboard U.S. military flights, prompting Trump to announce a 25% tariff on Colombian imports, with the possibility of raising it to 50%. Petro’s government responded with threats of their own tariffs, but quickly backed down under mounting pressure.

According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, Colombia has now pledged to accept deportees “without limitation or delay,” including those flown on military aircraft. Leavitt stated that the tariffs and sanctions drafted by the Trump administration would be suspended, but could be reinstated if Colombia fails to follow through.

Colombia’s Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo announced that the government would use the presidential plane to return deportees from the U.S., signaling an end to the dispute. However, travel restrictions on Colombian officials and heightened cargo inspections will remain in place until the first flights arrive successfully.

Trump’s strong stance on immigration enforcement has once again demonstrated his willingness to use economic leverage to compel cooperation from foreign governments. The administration has warned other nations to fully comply with their deportation obligations or face similar consequences.

Top Colombian officials are expected to travel to Washington, D.C., for further discussions with U.S. officials on immigration enforcement and trade relations.