Trump Calls Off Tariffs as Colombia Concedes on Deportation Flights

President Trump has agreed to hold off on steep tariffs against Colombia after the South American nation consented to receive deported migrants on U.S. military aircraft. The rapid turnaround came just hours after Trump threatened a 25% levy on all Colombian exports to the United States—an ultimatum he said would double to 50% if the stalemate continued. He also floated a travel ban and visa revocations for Colombian officials in retaliation for the country’s initial refusal to accept flights carrying deportees.

Colombian President Gustavo Petro initially rejected Trump’s approach, including the use of shackles and handcuffs on deportees, prompting threats of mutual tariff hikes. Ultimately, both governments averted an all-out trade war when Colombia agreed to the White House’s conditions “without limitation or delay.” With that, the prospect of immediate retaliatory measures—on everything from cargo inspections to visa sanctions—has been averted, stabilizing what could have quickly turned into a significant diplomatic conflict.