U.S. slams Colombia over sudden repatriation U-Turn

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

In a bold statement underscoring its commitment to ending illegal immigration, the Trump administration criticised Colombian President Gustavo Petro for abruptly reversing a repatriation agreement with the United States.

Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, revealed on Sunday that President Petro initially approved the necessary flights and authorisations for repatriating Colombian nationals unlawfully residing in the United States.

However, Petro reportedly rescinded this approval while the flights were already in progress, sparking sharp criticism from Washington.

Rubio reaffirmed the Trump administration’s determination to hold foreign governments accountable for reclaiming their citizens residing illegally in the U.S.

“President Trump has made it clear that America will no longer be lied to or taken advantage of,” Rubio stated.

He further emphasised the expectation for nations to act “seriously and expeditiously” in addressing such matters.

This development comes amid heightened measures by the administration to bolster border security and curb illegal immigration, which has been a cornerstone of President Trump’s policies.

Sunday’s incident signals a potential strain in U.S.-Colombian relations, with the Secretary of State warning that such actions would not deter the administration’s resolve.

While the Colombian government has yet to respond publicly to the allegations, the Trump administration has vowed to press forward with its broader immigration and border security agenda, sending a clear message to other nations regarding their responsibilities in tackling illegal migration.