Colombia Initiates Repatriation Flight Amid Diplomatic Tensions with US
A Colombian Air Force plane departed from Bogota’s CATAM military airport on Monday, headed for San Diego, California, to repatriate 110 Colombian citizens awaiting deportation from the United States. This flight follows a commitment by President Gustavo Petro and Foreign Minister Luis Guillermo Murillo, ensuring the repatriation process adheres to protocols for the dignified return of citizens.
The move comes after a diplomatic dispute between Colombia and the US, which escalated into a serious standoff, including potential sanctions and visa cancellations. The tension began when Colombia denied landing rights to two US planes carrying deported migrants, despite prior authorization. President Petro revoked the permits mid-flight, stressing the importance of a respectful and dignified repatriation for the deported citizens.
In retaliation, US President Donald Trump imposed tariffs on Colombian goods, including a 25% tariff on all imports from Colombia, with plans for an increase to 50% within a week. Further sanctions included a travel ban and visa revocations for Colombian officials, emergency financial sanctions, and enhanced border inspections. Despite this, the White House announced that Colombia agreed to accept migrants “without limitation or delay,” signaling a resolution to the conflict. Trump emphasized that the US expects full cooperation from all nations in accepting their citizens illegally residing in the United States.
