The White House issued a statement on Sunday stating that the Government of Colombia agrees with all the terms of President Trump, which include the unrestricted acceptance of all illegal foreigners returned from the United States. It is noted that the promised tariffs and sanctions against Colombian imports will not be applied unless Colombia fails to comply with this agreement.
According to White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt, visa restrictions and enhanced inspections will remain in place until the first plane carrying deported Colombians successfully returns. The statement highlights that President Trump will continue to protect national sovereignty and expects cooperation from other nations in accepting the deportations of their illegal citizens from the United States.
In response to Colombian President Gustavo Petro's refusal to accept two previously authorized repatriation flights, Trump announced the imposition of tariffs of 25% that will increase to 50% in one week, the revocation of visas for high-ranking Colombian government officials and their families, as well as enhanced inspections and tax, banking, and financial sanctions.
Amid this escalation of reprisals, the White House assured the continued use of military aircraft to deport undocumented individuals to their countries of origin, apparently reaching an agreement to address the situation. Colombia, in turn, announced the application of 25% tariffs on imported U.S. products in response to U.S. measures.
The United States is Colombia's main trading partner, exporting products such as refined oil, gold, aluminum, coal, coffee, and flowers to the North American country, while for the U.S., Colombia ranks 23rd in trading partners, with significant imports of U.S. corn.
