Bogotá: The White House announced Sunday night that Colombia has agreed to accept migrants who entered the US illegally. President Donald Trump has decided not to impose a 25% tariff on Colombia under this new agreement.
Colombia committed to accepting its nationals without delay, including those deported on US military aircraft. “The Government fully accepted the conditions outlined by President Trump,” said Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
Tariffs and Sanctions Held in Reserve
Trump had prepared economic measures under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). These measures will remain on hold unless Colombia violates the deal.
“IEEPA tariffs and sanctions are drafted and ready but will not proceed if Colombia honors this commitment,” Leavitt stated. However, if the agreement is not upheld, the tariffs could be imposed immediately.
Existing Measures Stay in Place for Now
Although tariffs are paused, other penalties ordered by President Trump earlier on Sunday remain in effect. These include stricter customs inspections for Colombian cargo and visa restrictions targeting Colombian officials.
Leavitt added that these penalties will be lifted once a planeload of deported migrants is successfully returned to Colombia. Until then, inspections and visa penalties serve as a safeguard for the US.
Tensions Escalated Before the Agreement
The negotiations followed a tense exchange between Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro. Earlier, Petro blocked two US military aircraft from landing in Colombia. These planes were carrying deportees from the United States.
The retaliatory actions by Petro led to threats of increased tariffs from both countries. The announcement from the White House did not confirm whether Trump and Petro directly spoke before reaching the deal.
Uncertainty Remains Despite Agreement
This agreement marks a temporary resolution to escalating tensions. However, its success depends on Colombia fulfilling its commitments. The US government emphasized that sanctions and tariffs will be implemented immediately if Colombia breaches the terms.
Observers view the situation as a significant test of cooperation between the two nations under increasing geopolitical and economic pressure.
