Tensions Rise as U. S. Cuts Aid to Colombia

President Trump Accuses Colombian Leader of Failing to Curb Drug Production

The United States has decided to stop sending aid to Colombia. President Trump stated that this decision is due to Colombia's leader, President Petro, not doing enough to stop drug production. Trump used harsh language to describe Petro and warned that action must be taken or the U.S. will intervene.

Colombia's defense minister defended Petro, emphasizing that Colombia has been actively fighting drug trafficking and has suffered significant losses in the process.

Trump's Statements from Florida

Trump made these comments from his home in Florida. He accused Petro of encouraging drug production and claimed that U.S. funds given to Colombia are being wasted. Trump announced that no more money will be sent to Colombia and criticized Petro for being disrespectful to the U.S.

U.S. Strike on Colombian Rebel Group

Around the same time, the U.S. Defense Secretary announced a strike on a boat linked to a Colombian rebel group, the ELN. The boat was carrying drugs, and three people were killed. The U.S. has been conducting these strikes, stating that they are targeting drug traffickers. Petro responded by demanding answers after a fisherman was allegedly killed in one of these strikes.

ELN's Denial and Colombian Authorities' Findings

The ELN has denied involvement in drug trafficking, but Colombian authorities frequently discover drug labs and drugs linked to the group. The U.S. has accused Colombia of not cooperating in the drug war. Colombia is the world's largest exporter of cocaine, and coca leaf cultivation reached a record high last year.

Petro's U.S. Visa Revoked

Petro recently had his U.S. visa revoked after he asked American soldiers to disobey Trump's orders. Petro claimed that the U.S. killed a fisherman in one of its strikes and that the boat was broken down and sending a distress signal. He asserted that the U.S. invaded Colombian territory and killed an innocent man.

Aftermath of Recent Strikes

A Colombian news program reported that a man injured in a recent strike was in serious condition. A Colombian official stated that the man would be treated as a criminal because he was carrying drugs. Meanwhile, Ecuador confirmed that an Ecuadorian man injured in a strike was in good health and had not committed any crimes.