Colombia reverses stance on US deportation flights after Trump’s tariff threat; US suspends sanctions

Colombia has reversed its initial refusal to accept deportation flights from the US, following a diplomatic standoff that saw US President Donald Trump impose retaliatory tariffs. Colombian President Gustavo Petro responded by making arrangements for the dignified return of deported nationals, underlining his commitment to human rights.

In a statement on Sunday, the Colombian government confirmed that the presidential plane would be used to bring back its citizens from the US deportation flights. “This decision reflects Colombia’s dedication to ensuring a respectful and dignified process for our nationals,” the statement read, adding that no Colombian would be expelled from the country.

To further support this, a special task force has been established, consisting of representatives from various government departments to ensure that deportees are treated with respect. The new Unified Command Post (PMU) will set protocols to guarantee the humane treatment of Colombian deportees, maintaining their dignity and human rights.

The Colombian government also reassured the public that it would continue negotiations with the US to ensure better conditions for deportees and maintain the human rights of its citizens.

In response, the White House indicated that the US would pause sanctions on Colombia after the reversal, signaling a shift in diplomatic relations.

This change of heart follows a series of tensions between the two nations. Initially, Colombia had blocked two US military flights carrying deported migrants, demanding the US revise its migration practices. The move led Trump to announce a series of retaliatory actions, including a 25% tariff on Colombian imports and a travel ban on Colombian nationals, alongside a suspension of visas for Colombian officials in the US.

Petro had condemned the treatment of Colombian migrants by the US, accusing Trump of undermining their dignity, and retaliated by raising import tariffs on US goods by 25%. However, with the recent diplomatic shift, tensions have cooled, with both sides signaling a willingness to cooperate on migration issues.

Trump’s administration had initially imposed the tariffs after Petro’s refusal to accept the deportation flights, but the White House has since suspended those sanctions following Colombia’s commitment to ensuring the humane treatment of deported individuals.