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Trump Targets Colombia with Retaliatory Measures: Visa Revocations, Tariffs, and Travel Bans

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced a series of harsh retaliatory measures against Colombian President Gustavo Petro and his government, escalating tensions between the two nations. The move comes after Colombia reportedly refused to accept deportees from the United States, turning back two U.S. military flights carrying Colombian nationals.

In response, Trump has implemented sweeping actions:

1. Visa Revocations and Travel Ban: U.S. visas for Colombian President Gustavo Petro, government officials, and their allies and supporters have been revoked. A broader travel ban has also been imposed, extending to party members, family members, and other supporters of the Colombian government.
2. Emergency Tariffs: Effective immediately, a 25% tariff has been placed on all goods imported from Colombia. Trump warned that this tariff would double to 50% within a week if no resolution is reached.
3. Enhanced Inspections: Customs and Border Protection has been directed to conduct heightened inspections of all Colombian nationals and cargo entering the United States, citing national security concerns.
4. Financial Sanctions: Under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), the U.S. Treasury Department will fully impose banking and financial sanctions on Colombia, restricting access to U.S. financial systems and services.

These measures represent a significant escalation in U.S.-Colombia relations, with Trump framing the response as a necessary defense of American sovereignty. “If they won’t take back their deportees, they can no longer expect preferential treatment in trade, travel, or finance,” Trump stated in a press release.

The Colombian government has yet to issue an official response to the sanctions, but critics argue that the measures could have severe economic and diplomatic consequences for both nations. Colombian exports to the U.S., particularly in agriculture and manufacturing, could face significant disruption under the new tariffs and enhanced inspections.

Analysts suggest that the measures might also strain regional alliances and complicate U.S. efforts to combat drug trafficking, an issue that has been a cornerstone of U.S.-Colombia relations for decades.

The escalating standoff underscores the broader challenges in managing deportations and maintaining diplomatic ties amid competing national interests. Observers await further developments as the U.S. presses Colombia for compliance.

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