Colombian President Gustavo Petro has conceded to President Donald Trump after the latter imposed a series of tariffs on Colombia for refusing to accept the US’ immigrant deportation flights.
President Trump had levied tariffs on Colombia after President Petro prevented two illegal immigrant repatriation flights from landing in Colombia.
“Petro’s denial of these flights has jeopardized the National Security and Public Safety of the United States,” said Trump, who subsequently announced 25%-50% tariffs and visa restrictions on certain government officials.
Despite initial defiance and threats to respond to Trump with sanctions of his own, Petro ultimately caved to Trump and accepted his demands.
“The government of Colombia has agreed to all of President Trump’s terms,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt. “Including the unrestricted acceptance of all illegal aliens from Colombia returned from the United States.”
Press Secretary Leavitt added that Colombia’s acceptance of Trump’s terms puts planned sanctions on hold, but that visa restrictions would continue until the terms are fulfilled.
“Today’s events make clear to the world that America is respected again,” concluded Leavitt.
State Department Secretary Marco Rubio had announced the visa restrictions shortly after Petro’s interference with the illegal immigrant repatriation flights.
“Measures will continue until Colombia meets its obligations to accept the return of its own citizens,” said Secretary Rubio. “America will not back down when it comes to defending its national security interests.”
Both on the campaign trail and during his first days in office, Trump has pledged strict enforcement and tightening of current immigration laws.
Beside promising a widescale deportation initiative of criminal illegal immigrants, Trump stated he would reinstate his ‘Remain in Mexico’ policy, end catch and release.
“All illegal entry will immediately be halted and we will begin the process of returning millions and millions of criminal aliens back to the places from which they came,” assured Trump.
