WASHINGTON, DC — TENSIONS over deportation policies escalated this week as Colombia became the latest country to block the return of its nationals deported from the United States. The decision highlights growing resistance to the Trump administration's mass deportation efforts.
On Sunday (Jan. 26), Colombia's President, Gustavo Petro, denied entry to two U.S. military flights carrying Colombian nationals. Petro emphasized that his government would not allow the return of migrants until they are treated with dignity and respect by U.S. authorities.
Addressing the situation, Petro stated that Colombian migrants cannot be treated as “criminals.” In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he pointed out that 15,660 Americans are currently residing “irregularly” in Colombia, adding, “North American citizens who wish can be in Colombia; I believe in human freedom.”
The Colombian President criticized the deportation practices, stressing that "irregular" American migrants in Colombia must follow local laws to regularize their stay. He assured that his administration would not engage in harsh enforcement measures. “You will never see me burning a gringo flag or doing a "ratzia" to return illegals in handcuffs to the United States. True libertarians will never attack human freedom. We are the opposite of the Nazis.” he declared.
The announcement from Colombia comes shortly after Brazil condemned the treatment of its nationals deported from the U.S. in handcuffs and chains. Brazilian authorities have since demanded an explanation from Washington.
The growing backlash follows the Trump administration's new executive order prioritizing the immediate deportation of undocumented immigrants with criminal records and heightened border enforcement. Raids in Democratic-led states such as New York, New Jersey, and Illinois have already resulted in the detention of more than 800 individuals.
The ongoing crackdown continues to raise questions about international relations and the treatment of migrants in the U.S.
