US and Colombia Reach Agreement to Avoid Tariffs Amid Deportation Dispute

In a rapid resolution to a tense diplomatic standoff, the United States and Colombia have struck a deal over deportation flights that averts the imposition of hefty tariffs on Colombian goods.

The escalating situation began after US President Donald Trump threatened to impose a 25% tariff on all Colombian imports following Colombian President Gustavo Petro's refusal to allow two US military deportation flights to land in Colombia. The conflict arose when President Petro insisted that deported migrants should be treated with "dignity and respect" and only returned aboard "civilian planes".

In a significant turnaround, the White House confirmed that Colombia has now agreed to welcome deported migrants on US military aircraft "without limitation or delay." Furthermore, both nations have reached a mutual understanding regarding the treatment of repatriated citizens, aiming to ensure their dignity during the process.

Despite the initial tension, it appeared that a conciliatory path had been forged. The agreement came swiftly, with both sides keen to resolve the fallout. President Trump initially announced "urgent and decisive retaliatory measures" which would have included tariffs and new visa sanctions. However, these were quickly sidelined as negotiations progressed.

In a show of national pride, President Petro took to social media platform X, affirming his nation's resilience and emphasizing that Colombian heritage would not be compromised by foreign pressures. "Your blockade does not scare me," he said, reaffirming Colombia as "the heart of the world."

The White House warned that should Colombia fail to honor the agreement, the proposed tariffs would be implemented without hesitation. Additionally, visa sanctions and heightened inspections for Colombians at the border would remain in effect until the first flight of Colombians deported from the U.S. successfully landed back home.