Secretary Rubio has authorized travel restrictions on Colombian government officials and their immediate family members due to interference with U.S. repatriation flights. This action follows President Petro’s refusal to accept two repatriation flights he had initially approved.
In response, the U.S. State Department, under the direction of Secretary Rubio, has halted visa issuance at the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá. The sanctions target those responsible for obstructing the repatriation process and will remain in effect until Colombia fulfills its responsibility to accept the return of its citizens. The U.S. is committed to safeguarding its national security interests.
Secretary Rubio is exercising authority under INA 212 (a)(3)(C), which allows the U.S. to deny entry to any individual whose presence could negatively impact U.S. foreign policy. The restrictions will apply to relevant Colombian officials and their immediate family members.
