Colombia sends plane to pick up deportees from US  

U.S. immigration authorities deport migrants from Texas to Colombia
Colombian women are patted down before boarding a repatriation flight to their country, in Harlingen, Texas, U.S. February 28, 2024. REUTERS/Veronica Gabriela Cardenas
Source: REUTERS

Colombia is sending a military plane to the United States to bring home 110 Colombians who are being deported.

The government says this is to make sure their return is handled properly and their rights are respected. Medical staff are also on board to provide healthcare if needed.

The decision comes after a disagreement between Colombian President Gustavo Petro and US authorities over how deportations were being carried out.

Petro had earlier refused to allow American military planes carrying deportees to land in Colombia, saying some had been sent back in chains.

His move led to tensions with US President Donald Trump, who threatened to impose tariffs on Colombian imports and take action against government officials linked to Petro.

After weeks of diplomatic talks, both sides reached a compromise.

Colombia agreed to arrange flights for its deported citizens, ensuring they return home in safe and dignified conditions.

The first flight is expected to depart shortly, with Colombian immigration and foreign ministry officials on board to oversee the process.

You may be interested in

/
/
/
/
/
/
/