Colombia offers to pay for deportation of citizens from U.S. amid diplomatic tensions

The Colombian government has announced its willingness to cover the costs of deporting its citizens from the United States, in a move aimed at ensuring their “dignified” return.

This comes after a diplomatic dispute between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and former U.S. President Donald Trump over the forced removal of Colombian migrants.

The disagreement escalated when Petro refused to allow U.S. military planes to transport deported Colombians, citing concerns over their treatment. He accused the U.S. government of treating migrants like criminals, shackling and handcuffing them during deportation. In response, the U.S. embassy in Bogotá suspended visa services and Trump threatened to impose heavy trade tariffs of up to 50% on Colombian goods.

On Friday, Colombia’s foreign ministry proposed taking full responsibility for transporting deported citizens back home. A statement confirmed that this offer was made to Mauricio Claver-Carone, Trump’s special envoy for Latin America.

Meanwhile, Colombian military and civilian aircraft have already begun repatriating deported migrants under Petro’s directive, ensuring that none are returned in handcuffs.

Colombia expects around 27,000 deportees in the coming months, as Trump pushes forward with his pledge to expel millions of undocumented migrants.

Despite the tension, the U.S. remains Colombia’s largest trade partner and has provided millions of dollars in aid for counter-narcotics operations and security efforts over the years.