Colombia lost forest the size of New York City in just six months, watchdog warns
Colombia lost nearly 88,900 hectares of forest — an area larger than New York City — in just six months, according to a new report from the country’s public watchdog.
Residents of Colombia’s capital voiced their disagreement with President Gustavo Petro’s decision to reject two U.S. military flights carrying deported migrants, expressing concerns about potential retaliation from the United States.
President Donald Trump announced on Sunday (January 26) that he would impose sweeping sanctions on Colombia after the South American nation turned away the deportation flights as part of the U.S. administration’s ongoing immigration crackdown. Trump’s measures include tariffs on Colombian goods, as well as other diplomatic penalties aimed at pressuring the Colombian government to reconsider its stance.
Colombians, including local residents like Juan Carlos Robayo, expressed their frustration with the decision. “If they are deported from another country, they must be received here because this is their country,” Robayo said. “How can one accept that? If you come to your own country, how can you not be accepted? It’s not logical.”
The potential economic fallout from Trump’s proposed sanctions has sparked concerns across Colombia. “It affects us, it will affect all people exporting their products,” said Jenny Ortiz. “This will put a halt on Colombian commerce with the United States. This will completely affect us.”
Alexander Camargo, another local resident, stressed that President Petro needs to reconsider his approach. “Mr. Petro needs to think with a cold head, not ideologically, but about what’s best for our country. He needs to think more,” he said.
In response to the rejection of the deportation flights, Colombia, a key trading partner of the U.S. in Latin America, has threatened to impose a 50% tariff on American goods.
Trump’s actions reflect a more assertive foreign policy, aiming to make an example of Colombia as the second Latin American country to deny U.S. military deportation flights. The retaliatory measures include a 25% tariff on all Colombian goods entering the U.S., which will rise to 50% within a week; a travel ban and visa revocations for Colombian government officials; as well as financial sanctions on Colombia's treasury and banking systems.
As tensions rise between the two nations, the economic and diplomatic repercussions could have lasting effects on trade relations between Colombia and the United States, a relationship worth billions of dollars annually.
On May 28, the inauguration ceremony of Lachin International Airport was held.
Taxi drivers across France are protesting government plans to cut payments for driving patients to medical appointments. These cuts are part of a broader effort by Prime Minister François Bayrou to save €40 billion in the 2026 budget and reduce the country’s large deficit.
A car drove into crowds of Liverpool fans celebrating the club’s Premier League title in the city centre on Monday evening, injuring dozens including 4 children. A 53-year-old man believed to be the driver was arrested at the scene.
EU ministers have greenlit a massive €150 billion defense investment fund—dubbed the Security Action for Europe (SAFE)—as the bloc ramps up its military readiness in response to Russia’s aggression and growing uncertainty over U.S. security guarantees.
Brazil’s economy is expected to have regained momentum in the first quarter of 2025, driven by a surge in household spending and private investment, according to a Reuters poll of economists conducted from May 21–26.
More than 500 people were arrested and two fatalities reported following chaotic celebrations across France after Paris Saint-Germain's historic Champions League victory, according to the interior ministry.
Wildfires in western and central Canada have triggered the evacuation of more than 26,000 people, with provinces including Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta facing major threats.
China has issued a formal protest against the United States over recent remarks by Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, accusing Washington of “vilifying” Beijing and promoting confrontation in the Indo-Pacific.
Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief: here are the top news stories for June 1st, covering the latest developments you need to know.
Türkiye’s first floating natural gas production platform, Osman Gazi, reached Filyos Port in Zonguldak on May 31.
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