**US and Colombia Reach Agreement to Avoid Tariffs After Deportation Flight Dispute**

**Following a diplomatic standoff, the US and Colombia have negotiated terms that suspend potential tariffs after Colombia agreed to cooperate with deportation flights from the US.**

The tension between the United States and Colombia escalated over the weekend when Colombian President Gustavo Petro barred US military deportation flights from landing in Colombia. The crisis led to former President Donald Trump announcing a 25% tariff on all Colombian goods. However, a swift resolution was reached when Colombia agreed to accept deported migrants arriving on US military aircraft without restrictions.

Initially, President Petro emphasized the need for respect and dignity in handling deportation processes, stating that deportees should be returned on "civilian planes." His initial response triggered an immediate reaction from Trump, who determined urgent retaliatory measures, which included tariffs and potential visa sanctions against Colombian nationals.

The breakthrough came when the White House announced that Colombia had agreed to accept deportees on military flights as requested by Trump. In a statement reflecting this agreement, the administration noted that Colombia's commitment was pivotal in avoiding the imposition of tariffs. While the tariffs were drafted and ready to be implemented, they remain on hold contingent on Colombia's compliance with the new terms.

This agreement also includes ongoing visa sanctions and enhanced inspections at US borders involving Colombians, which will persist until the successful repatriation of the first group of Colombian deportees on military flights occurs.

The diplomatic negotiations appear to have assuaged initial tensions, at least temporarily, and efforts will likely forge a path toward a more respectful bilateral relationship going forward.