Former President Donald Trump announced retaliatory measures against Colombia on Sunday following the country's refusal to accept deportation flights carrying Colombian nationals from the U.S. The move escalated tensions between the two nations and sparked a war of words between Trump and Colombian President Gustavo Petro.

Trump accused Petro of jeopardizing U.S. national security and public safety by rejecting the flights, which he said carried a "large number of illegal criminals." He announced a 25% tariff on all Colombian imports, increasing to 50% within a week. Additional sanctions included a travel ban and visa revocations for Colombian government officials and their associates, along with intensified customs inspections for Colombian nationals and cargo entering the U.S.

Trump stated these actions were just the beginning and vowed further measures if Colombia continued to resist accepting the deported individuals. A senior Trump administration official emphasized the obligation of countries to accept repatriation flights, calling it a matter of international law.

The White House confirmed the rapid implementation of the sanctions, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio reportedly directing the cancellation of visa appointments for Colombians. The administration aims to send a strong message about its commitment to border security and its expanding deportation program.

Petro initially criticized the U.S. for treating Colombian migrants as criminals and demanded a protocol for dignified treatment before accepting any further deportations. However, he later appeared to soften his stance, offering his presidential plane to facilitate the return of the migrants in question.

Trump's border czar, Tom Homan, indicated that the administration's deportation efforts are still in their early stages. While currently focused on individuals with violent criminal records, Homan suggested that all undocumented immigrants could eventually be targeted for removal.