Emmanuel OchayiThe White House revealed Sunday that Colombia has agreed to accept deported citizens, including on U.S. military flights, after President Donald Trump issued threats of sanctions. This announcement follows weeks of tension between the two nations over deportation protocols as reported by Prime Business Africa.
“Colombia has committed to the unrestricted acceptance of all illegal aliens from Colombia returned from the United States, including on U.S. military aircraft,” the White House statement said. “This agreement is a significant step in ensuring that our immigration policies are upheld.”
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe statement also emphasised President Trump’s broader immigration agenda. “Today’s events make it clear to the world that America is respected again. President Trump will continue to fiercely protect our nation’s sovereignty,” the statement read.
Trump’s Threat of Sanctions
President Trump had previously warned Colombia of severe consequences if it refused to accept deportation flights. Speaking to reporters, Trump said, “We’re not going to let nations tell us what to do. If Colombia thinks they can ignore their obligations, we have tools to deal with that.”
He added, “Our job is to protect our borders and enforce our laws. We expect cooperation, not defiance. That’s the message I’ve sent to every nation.”
Colombia’s resistance to accepting military flights had drawn sharp criticism from Trump. He said, “We’re providing aid to these countries, and yet, they refuse to take back their own people. That’s not how it works. If you don’t cooperate, there will be consequences.”
READ ALSO: Trump Imposes 25% Tariffs On Colombia Over Defying Deportation Flights
Petro’s Initial Refusal
Colombian President Gustavo Petro had initially refused military flights for deportees, insisting on “dignified treatment.” Petro stated last week, “We are willing to accept our people, but it must be done respectfully. They will return on civilian planes, not military aircraft.”
Petro’s stance had sparked a standoff, with Trump calling his refusal “an insult to American taxpayers.” Trump said, “We spend billions helping these countries, and this is the thanks we get? That’s not happening under my watch.”
Agreement Reached
The White House announced that the threat of sanctions prompted Colombia to reconsider. While no immediate confirmation came from Colombian officials, the White House said it would suspend planned tariffs and sanctions.
“Colombia understood what was at stake,” a senior administration official said. “This agreement is a win for the United States and demonstrates the President’s ability to get results.”
Trump also weighed in on the resolution, saying, “This is what leadership looks like. Other nations are paying attention. We’ve shown that America won’t back down.”
Broader Immigration Goals
The development aligns with Trump’s broader immigration policy. Speaking about the importance of deportation cooperation, Trump said, “This isn’t just about Colombia. Every nation should know that if you want our support, you need to do your part. This is about fairness and respect.”
Trump also urged Congress to support his immigration reforms. “We need stronger laws, but until then, we’ll use every tool we have. And we’ll win. Just like we did today with Colombia,” he concluded.
This agreement marks a turning point in U.S.-Colombia relations, with potential implications for other nations hesitant to accept deportees. The White House has made it clear: cooperation is non-negotiable.
Emmanuel Ochayi is a journalist. He is a graduate of the University of Lagos, School of first choice and the nations pride. Emmanuel is keen on exploring writing angles in different areas, including Business, climate change, politics, Education, and others.
