Trump has repeatedly insisted that tariffs are coming on Canada and Mexico, despite both countries seeking to address his stated concerns about illegal border crossings and the smuggling of fentanyl. But the Republican president is also motivated by the idea that tariffs would force other countries to “respect” the United States.

Colombia attempted to stand up to Trump's immigration demands, with mixed results. Mexico appears to be playing it safer.

A brief standoff with Colombia holds important lessons for how future trade conflicts might unfold in the new Trump administration.