Trump Sanctions Colombia For Refusing Deportation Flights, Says 'It's Just The Beginning'

US President Donald Trump on Sunday ordered sweeping tariffs and sanctions against Colombia in retaliation for its refusal to accept deportation flights, as Bogota responded in kind with a 25 percent levy on US goods.

Trump, back in office for less than a week and peeved after President Gustavo Petro turned away the US planes, launched the tit-for-tat by promising to impose 25 percent on Colombian products, which would rise to 50 percent in a week. His authority to do so was unclear as Colombia, historically one of Washington’s closest allies in Latin America, enjoys a free-trade agreement with the United States.

Trump also said he would immediately revoke visas for Colombian government officials and Petro’s “supporters" — and subject Colombians to greater scrutiny at airports.