-
11:30
-
11:00
-
10:40
-
10:20
-
10:00
-
09:40
-
09:20
-
09:00
-
08:40
-
08:20
-
08:00
-
07:30
-
07:00
-
16:30
-
16:00
-
15:40
-
15:20
-
15:00
-
14:40
-
14:20
-
14:00
-
13:40
-
13:20
-
13:00
-
12:30
-
12:00
A Diplomatic Standoff: Petro's Confrontation with Trump and Its Impact on Colombia
On January 26, 2025, a late-night social media post by Colombian President Gustavo Petro triggered a diplomatic dispute with the United States, exacerbating tensions over the treatment of Colombian migrants being deported. Petro criticized the U.S. for its handling of deportations, particularly after reports that migrants were handcuffed during flights. This led him to block the entry of U.S. planes carrying deportees into Colombia.
In response, U.S. President Donald Trump threatened heavy tariffs on Colombian goods, revoked visas for Colombian officials, and imposed potential economic sanctions. Initially, Petro suggested retaliatory tariffs against U.S. products but quickly backed down as deportation flights resumed, with Colombian Air Force planes carrying the migrants instead.
The episode highlighted Petro’s combative approach to diplomacy, but also revealed weaknesses in his leadership, with political analysts noting that his confrontational stance toward the U.S. backfired. The Colombian government’s response lacked direction, deepening concerns over the country’s foreign policy, historically aligned with the U.S.
Petro’s presidency has been marked by domestic challenges, including political crises and contentious reforms, but he also maintains strong support among progressive sectors who view his resistance to U.S. pressure as a defense of Colombian sovereignty. His approval rating remains low, but his ability to frame his defiance against Trump as a stand for national dignity could strengthen his political standing ahead of the 2026 elections.
