“The conflict between the United States and Colombia, which nearly escalated into a ‘tariff war’ due to Colombia’s non-cooperation with the U.S. in deporting illegal immigrants, has been dramatically resolved.
The White House announced through a spokesperson’s statement on the 26th local time, saying, ‘The Colombian government has agreed to all the conditions set by President Donald Trump. This includes allowing the return of Colombian nationals illegally staying in the U.S. without delay or restriction, including on U.S. military aircraft.’
The White House also emphasized, ‘Under this agreement, unless Colombia breaches the accord, the draft tariffs and sanctions under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) will be put on hold and will not be signed.’
However, the visa sanctions on Colombian officials and their families, as well as strengthened customs and border inspections, will remain in effect until the first flight carrying illegal Colombian immigrants returns to the United States.
Previously, President Trump announced strong sanctions, including immediately imposing a 25% tariff and a 50% tariff within a week, when the Colombian government refused to allow a U.S. military aircraft carrying a large group of deported Colombian illegal immigrants to land.
In response, Colombian President Gustavo Petro announced a countermeasure to impose a 25% tariff on the U.S., raising concerns that a ‘tariff war’ might break out between the two allied nations that have a free trade agreement (FTA).”