Colombia Accepts Deportees on US Military Flights After Trump’s Tariff Threat 🇨🇴✈️

In a dramatic turn of events, Colombia has agreed to accept deported citizens transported on US military planes after former President Donald Trump 🇺🇸 threatened crushing tariffs of up to 50%. This high-stakes standoff highlights the growing tension between Washington and Latin America 🌎 over immigration policies.

From Bold Defiance to Reluctant Compliance 🤝

Colombian President Gustavo Petro initially stood firm, declaring that deportees would only be accepted “with dignity” on civilian planes. He even blocked two US military aircraft at the border, calling their treatment unacceptable.

But Trump, just days back in office, didn’t hold back. He hit Colombia with an ultimatum: cooperate or face escalating economic penalties 💰. Facing severe economic risks, Colombia reversed its stance late Sunday, announcing the “unrestricted acceptance” of deportees.

“Today’s events make clear that America is respected again,” the White House proclaimed, celebrating the deal as a diplomatic victory.

Tariffs Suspended, But at What Cost? 🤔

While Trump suspended his tariff threat, other measures remain in place. These include stricter visa restrictions for Colombians and heightened airport scrutiny 🛂. Colombian officials and their families are also banned from obtaining US visas until deportation flights resume without issue.

Latin America Pushes Back 💥

Colombia’s decision comes amid growing regional discontent over Trump’s tough deportation policies. Brazil condemned the treatment of its deported citizens last week, citing reports of detainees being handcuffed, denied water, and fainting during flights.

In response to these policies, Honduran President Xiomara Castro called for an emergency summit of Latin American leaders to address the situation.

Petro, meanwhile, highlighted the 15,600 undocumented Americans living in Colombia, urging them to legalize their status. He vowed not to conduct raids, contrasting Colombia’s policies with Trump’s aggressive deportation approach.

A New Era of Migration Battles

The standoff between Colombia and the US signals a broader struggle over immigration policies in the Americas. While some nations have complied with US demands, others, like Brazil and Honduras, are voicing outrage over the treatment of their citizens.

Colombia’s about-face serves as a reminder of the influence economic pressure holds over smaller nations, even as they strive to assert their sovereignty.