Colombia yielded to the art of the deal

Leadership is defined not by words but by action. In a world where many political leaders hesitate, delay or fold under pressure, US President Donald Trump has shown an example of his approach to international challenges. One of his new term’s first major diplomatic challenges emerged when Colombia last week refused to accept deported nationals from the US. Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s defiance directly challenged American sovereignty, testing whether Washington would enforce its immigration laws or bow to foreign obstruction.

Trump’s response was swift and unequivocal. Within days, he announced a 25 percent tariff on Colombian imports and revoked visas for certain officials. He sent a clear message: the US will not tolerate interference with its lawful deportation policies. The impact was immediate. Colombia reversed its stance, agreeing to accept its deported nationals. What could have been a prolonged diplomatic standoff was resolved in record time to prove Trump’s strategy that economic leverage is a powerful diplomatic tool.

This moment was more than a victory over Colombia; it was a reaffirmation of America’s strength on the global stage. The new administration’s bold action set a precedent for other nations that may be considering defying US immigration laws. In doing so, he upheld American sovereignty and reinforced the campaign promises that led to his victory last year.

For years, the US has struggled with illegal immigration and, while deportation is a key part of addressing the crisis, its effectiveness depends on cooperation from foreign governments. When countries refuse to take back their deported nationals, it leaves Washington in a difficult position, often allowing criminals and undocumented immigrants to remain.

Bogota’s refusal to accept its deported citizens was not just a bureaucratic issue, it was a direct challenge to America’s sovereign right to enforce its laws. If left unchallenged, it could have encouraged other nations to follow suit, undermining US efforts to secure its border and enforce deportation orders. Unlike previous administrations, which often relied on diplomacy but with little success, Washington took immediate action, proving that, in some cases, consequences are the best deterrent.

This moment was more than a victory over Colombia; it was a reaffirmation of America’s strength on the global stage

Dalia Al-Aqidi

By acting decisively, Trump ensured that the US would not be forced to accommodate individuals with no legal right to remain in the country. This is an essential component of national security. Deportation policies exist to remove individuals who pose a risk, whether through illegal entry or criminal activity.

Instead of engaging in an endless diplomatic back and forth, the White House used economic pressure to force compliance. The 25 percent tariff on Colombian imports targeted key industries that rely on the US market, including coffee, textiles and flowers. The financial repercussions were severe enough that President Petro had no choice but to relent.

This strategy aligns with Trump’s broader economic philosophy, which is leveraging America’s financial power to secure favorable outcomes. During his first term, he used tariffs, sanctions and trade renegotiations to put America first. His handling of the Colombia situation reaffirmed that, when applied strategically, economic pressure is one of the most effective tools in international diplomacy.

His opponents argued that tariffs can backfire by increasing costs for American consumers. However, in this case, the imposition of tariffs was not meant to be permanent; it was a temporary measure designed to exert pressure. As soon as Bogota complied, Washington suspended the tariffs, proving they were a negotiation tool rather than a punishment.

Colombia may have been the immediate target of Trump’s decisive action, but the message was also directed at the world. For too long, many countries have resisted taking back their deported nationals, expecting the US to bear the burden instead. However, this situation signals that those days are now over.

This shift in policy has broader implications. The new administration has likely deterred other nations from attempting similar defiance. The message was clear: as a country, the US has the right to determine its own immigration policies and any government that seeks to obstruct them will face real consequences. That is what borders are for.

The recent tensions between the two nations have raised questions about the long-term stability of their trade and diplomatic relationship. While past cooperation has been driven by mutual economic and security interests, US-Colombia relations should be shaped by economic interdependence, political dynamics and shared security concerns moving forward.

Economically, Colombia remains reliant on access to the American market. Still, this dependence is now coupled with a heightened awareness that Washington is willing to use trade as an enforcement tool. While the tariff dispute was resolved quickly, it left lingering concerns about the unpredictability of future trade policies.

Bogota may seek to diversify its economic partnerships to reduce its vulnerability, while Washington could use its economic influence to push for more favorable trade agreements. This shift could create new negotiations over tariffs, export policies and labor regulations in the coming four years.

Diplomatically, the relationship will require careful management. Colombia has historically been a strategic ally of the US in Latin America, especially in its counternarcotics efforts. However, growing ideological differences between the Trump administration and the Petro government could create friction in areas beyond immigration.

The key challenge will be maintaining collaboration on security and regional stability while managing political disagreements.

Ultimately, the future of US-Colombia relations will depend on whether both nations prioritize economic and security cooperation over political disputes. If pragmatism prevails, the partnership can endure; however, Colombia may seek new allies if tensions escalate, shifting the balance of power in Latin America and challenging US influence in the region.

• Dalia Al-Aqidi is executive director at the American Center for Counter Extremism.