U.S., Colombia Reach Agreement on Deportation Flights, Avoiding Trade War

The United States and Colombia have reached an agreement to resume deportation flights, easing tensions that had threatened to escalate into a trade war. The deal, announced late Sunday, allows U.S. military aircraft to transport deported migrants back to Colombia, a move previously opposed by the South American nation.
The White House confirmed the agreement, stating that Colombia had accepted all conditions set by President Donald Trump, including the unrestricted return of Colombian nationals on military flights. In response, Washington has put on hold its plans to impose sanctions and tariffs that could have disrupted billions of dollars in bilateral trade.
Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo confirmed the resolution, stating that his government was ready to facilitate the return of its citizens. While he refrained from explicitly mentioning military flights, his statement signaled Colombia’s willingness to cooperate. Murillo and Colombia’s ambassador to the United States are expected to travel to Washington to finalize the details of the agreement.
The dispute arose after Colombia initially refused to accept deportation flights involving U.S. military aircraft, prompting President Trump to threaten a series of punitive measures. These included a 25% tariff on Colombian goods, which could have doubled within a week, a travel ban on Colombian officials, and financial sanctions. Such measures would have dealt a significant blow to Colombia, which relies on the U.S. for about a third of its exports.
Colombia’s reliance on the American market, bolstered by a 2006 free trade agreement, underscores the stakes of the diplomatic standoff. In 2023, trade between the two countries totaled $33.8 billion, with the U.S. enjoying a $1.6 billion surplus.
The agreement follows mounting criticism of the U.S. deportation practices across Latin America. In Brazil, migrants reported degrading treatment after being handcuffed during deportation flights. President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva condemned the treatment and deployed a Brazilian Air Force plane to complete the migrants’ journey.
President Gustavo Petro of Colombia had also expressed strong opposition to the use of military aircraft for deportations. He described his government’s approach as one rooted in dignity, offering his presidential plane to transport deportees in civilian conditions. Despite his initial objections, Colombia’s acceptance of the U.S. terms highlights the economic pressures at play.
This agreement comes amid Trump’s sweeping immigration crackdown, which he declared a national emergency after assuming office last week. His policies include using military resources for border enforcement, banning asylum applications, and restricting citizenship for children born on U.S. soil. While the deal with Colombia resolves an immediate diplomatic crisis, it raises broader questions about the long-term implications of Trump’s immigration policies on U.S.-Latin American relations.