A potential trade war between the United States and Colombia appears to have been averted after a rapid escalation and subsequent de-escalation over deportation flights. The dispute began when Colombian President Gustavo Petro refused entry to two US military planes carrying deported Colombian nationals, citing concerns over the treatment of migrants on such flights.

President Petro’s action, announced on social media, prompted an immediate and forceful response from former President Donald Trump. Trump, via his Truth Social platform, threatened to impose 25% tariffs on all Colombian goods, escalating to 50% if Colombia didn’t comply within a week. He also announced a travel ban and visa revocations for Colombian officials and their allies. Petro responded defiantly, vowing to retaliate with reciprocal tariffs.

The threat of punitive tariffs, which could have significantly impacted both countries’ economies – bilateral trade was valued at $53.5 billion in 2022 – led to intense behind-the-scenes negotiations. Colombia’s Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo ultimately announced that the impasse had been resolved, and Colombia would accept the returned citizens. While the details weren’t fully disclosed, the White House confirmed that Colombia agreed to accept deportees without limitation or delay, including those arriving on US military aircraft.

The White House hailed the agreement as a victory, stating that the threatened tariffs would be held in reserve unless Colombia failed to honor the agreement. However, the US indicated that visa restrictions on Colombian government officials would remain until the first plane of deportees landed. Increased scrutiny for Colombians arriving at US airports was also implemented. Colombia’s foreign minister is scheduled to travel to Washington for high-level meetings in the coming days.