Islam Times - Petro Calls Trump A 'White Slaveholder' over Migrant Flights and Tariffs

Islam Times - Colombian President Gustavo Petro and US President Donald Trump are locked in a heated dispute, marked by fiery exchanges and retaliatory policies, after Colombia initially refused US migrant deportation flights.

Petro has accused Trump of being a "white slaveholder" and warned that his "greed" threatens humanity's survival, escalating tensions between the two leaders over a migrant deportation standoff.

The conflict began when Colombia blocked two US military flights carrying deported migrants, citing concerns about dignity and respect in their return process. In response, Trump imposed a 25% tariff on Colombian imports, warned of raising it to 50%, and revoked visas for Colombian officials and their supporters.

Under pressure, Petro reversed his decision and offered to use his presidential plane to bring the migrants back to Colombia. Despite the climbdown, Petro launched a scathing public attack, declaring, "You don’t like our freedom. I don’t shake hands with white slavers." He also criticized Trump's economic power and policies, saying, "You can try to carry out a coup with your economic strength and arrogance, but we will resist."

Petro retaliated by imposing a 25% tariff on US goods entering Colombia, with plans to raise it to 50%, signaling a tit-for-tat economic showdown. The Colombian leader further accused Trump of undermining international cooperation, adding, "You're going to wipe out the human species because of greed."

The spat has fueled broader criticism from Petro, who also questioned racial dynamics in the US and denounced historical inequalities. He maintained his stance on migrant dignity, remarking, "If that country sends them back, it should be with dignity and respect for them and for our country."

Trump defended his actions, stating that the tariffs and visa restrictions demonstrated America’s resolve to enforce its sovereignty. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt added, "Colombia’s eventual cooperation makes clear to the world that America is respected again."

Petro, Colombia’s first left-wing president with roots in the M-19 guerrilla movement, has remained defiant. "We will not be ruled by slavers. Colombia has fought for freedom and will continue to do so," he said, referencing the nation's historical struggle against oppression.

As the feud continues, analysts warn that the diplomatic rift could strain long-standing US-Colombia relations, a cornerstone of regional stability.