After the Colombian president's rejection of a plane with deportees from the United States due to the inhumane treatment of migrants by U.S. authorities, and in response to Donald Trump's announcement of increased tariffs on Colombian products, Gustavo Petro raised tariffs on U.S. products to 25% and sent a direct message to his American counterpart.
In his message, Petro expressed his appreciation for some aspects of the United States; however, he pointed out the differences in the perception of Colombians by Trump. He referenced figures like Walt Whitman, Paul Simon, Noam Chomsky, Sacco, and Vanzetti, highlighting the ideals he considers important. Petro remembered the leaders assassinated in the U.S. and emphasized the importance of lovers of freedom alongside Colombia.
The Colombian president marked the difference between those who fought for freedom and those who have historically been oppressors, affirming the value and resilience of the Colombian people. He evoked the greatness of Colombia, making poetic and cultural allusions, highlighting the beauty of Gabriel García Márquez and the symbols of Latin American resistance such as Simón Bolívar.
Petro closed his message with a call for Latin American dignity and resistance, emphasizing that Colombia is the heart of the world and is open to the rest of the planet with open arms, facing any attempts at domination. He expressed his firmness against Trump's trade blockades and his willingness to engage in dialogue despite existing differences. Additionally, he criticized the use of oil as a fossil fuel and warned of its destructive consequences for humanity.
