Agreement Between Donald Trump and Colombia on Migrant Repatriation After Sanctions Threat

Diplomatic Tensions and Threat of Economic Sanctions

After diplomatic tensions, an agreement was reached between Donald Trump and the Colombian government regarding the repatriation of migrants expelled by the United States. This compromise came after the U.S. president threatened Colombia with heavy economic sanctions, including a 25% increase in customs duties, if they refused to accept the return of illegal migrants.

Conditions Accepted by Colombia

The White House announced on Sunday, January 26, that Colombia had accepted all the conditions set by President Trump, including the unrestricted acceptance of migrants expelled by the U.S., including those transported via U.S. military flights. As a result, the proposed sanctions, such as customs duties and visa restrictions, are now on hold. However, the visa-related sanctions will remain in place until the first repatriation flight arrives successfully.

Reactions and Compromise After Verbal Escalation

This decision follows a verbal escalation between the two countries after Colombia refused to accept U.S. military planes carrying expelled migrants. Colombian President Gustavo Petro had strongly opposed how the migrants were being treated, insisting they must be treated with dignity. However, after discussions, Colombia quickly announced that the “impasse” with the U.S. had been resolved.

Threats of Tariffs and Visa Restrictions

Washington had threatened to impose a 25% tariff, with a potential increase to 50%, despite the free trade agreement between the two countries. The Colombian foreign minister confirmed the end of the standoff, emphasizing that the agreement on migrant repatriation had been fully accepted by Bogotá.

Mass Deportation Program Announced by Trump

President Trump, who promised a mass deportation program, has already carried out deportations to other countries such as Brazil and Guatemala. The United States has also intensified efforts to deport criminal illegal migrants using military flights rather than civilian ones.

Return to Stability in Relations Between the Two Countries

This settlement marks a new phase in the relationship between the two countries, with Trump asserting that this turn of events shows that “America is respected again.”