Tue Jan 28 02:12:28 UTC 2025: **US Embassy in Bogotá Cancels Visa Appointments After Dispute with Colombia Over Deportations**

**Bogotá, Colombia** – The U.S. Embassy in Bogotá has canceled all visa appointments for Colombian citizens following a diplomatic dispute with the Colombian government over the repatriation of deported Colombians. The move, a direct response from the Trump administration, stems from Colombia’s initial refusal to accept deportation flights from the U.S. last weekend.

The Trump administration initiated deportation flights on military aircraft, a departure from the Biden administration’s use of commercial flights. After reports of harsh conditions and handcuffed deportees, Colombian President Gustavo Petro publicly rejected further flights unless “dignity and respect” were ensured. In response, President Trump threatened retaliatory measures including 25% tariffs (potentially rising to 50%), travel bans, visa revocations, and enhanced goods inspections. President Petro, in turn, vowed counter-tariffs and strongly criticized President Trump.

However, the Colombian government subsequently reversed course, agreeing to resume accepting the deportation flights. Despite this, the U.S. Embassy proceeded with the visa appointment cancellations, stating that the restrictions would remain in place until the first military plane carrying deportees landed in Colombia.

Experts are divided on the implications of this diplomatic spat. While some, like Ryan Berg of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, argue the Trump administration aimed to set a precedent of strong response to non-cooperation, others, such as former Mexican Ambassador Arturo Sarukhan, warn that such strong-arm tactics could be counterproductive, potentially pushing Colombia closer to China. Colombia’s economic vulnerability, as a major trading partner with the U.S., likely played a significant role in its decision to ultimately comply. The incident highlights the potentially tense relationship between the Trump administration and Latin American nations, and its potential long-term effects on regional cooperation and alliances.

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