Colombia has lifted its ban on deportation flights after U.S. President Donald Trump threatened tariffs and sanctions in response to the refusal of military aircraft carrying deported migrants.
On Sunday, the White House announced that Colombia had agreed to accept deported migrants, including those transported on U.S. military aircraft, averting a potential trade conflict. Trump had previously called for “retaliatory measures” after Colombian President Gustavo Petro blocked two military flights as part of his administration’s immigration crackdown.
“The government of Colombia has agreed to all of President Trump’s terms, including the unrestricted acceptance of deported Colombians via U.S. military aircraft without delay,” the White House stated. Trump celebrated the agreement, declaring, “Today’s events make clear to the world that America is respected again.”
Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo confirmed the resolution of the diplomatic standoff, stating, “We have overcome the impasse with the U.S. government. We will continue receiving Colombians who return as deportees.” While Murillo’s remarks did not explicitly mention the use of military aircraft, they aligned with the White House’s announcement.
The Colombian statement also noted that Murillo, along with Colombia’s ambassador to the U.S., would travel to Washington to further discuss agreements reached during the negotiations.
Previously, President Petro had insisted on treating repatriated citizens “with dignity,” favoring civilian flights over military transport. His initial rejection of two U.S. military flights carrying deported Colombians triggered the diplomatic confrontation that has now been resolved.