Bogot¡: Colombian President Gustavo Petro has responded to accusations made by US President Donald Trump, who labeled him a 'drug leader'. In a public statement, Petro emphasized that the issue lies with Trump, not the United States as a nation, and he defended Colombia's efforts and reputation on the international stage.
According to Anadolu Agency, President Petro took to the US social media platform X to express his thoughts. Despite his disagreements with Trump, he stated his respect for the history, culture, and people of the United States, clarifying that he does not view them as adversaries. Petro highlighted that the problem is specifically with Trump, not the broader US.
Petro further addressed Trump's accusation of him being a 'drug dealer', asserting that Colombia has always shown admiration for US culture and has never been disrespectful. He refuted the claim by stating he is neither a businessperson nor a drug trafficker, underscoring that greed has never been a part of his character. He differentiated himself from what he described as the capitalist trait of greed, often associated with mafia figures.
Further clarifying the situation, Petro mentioned a recent incident involving a boat targeted by the US in the Caribbean. He argued that the boat, suspected of being linked to drug activities, did not belong to the National Liberation Army (ELN), a rebel group. Petro questioned the justification for actions that led to the death of a fisherman from Santa Marta, labeling the incident as a tragedy in a region historically significant as the final resting place of Sim³n Bolvar.
Local media reports have indicated that the US claimed the targeted boat had connections to the ELN. In response to Trump's recent comments, where he labeled Petro an 'illegal drug dealer' and announced the cessation of US financial aid to Colombia, Petro maintained that Trump had been misinformed by his advisors.
Trump's allegations include claims that Petro promotes drug production throughout Colombia, describing it as the country's major business. He stated that Colombia would no longer receive US payments or subsidies and issued a warning to Petro to address drug-related issues promptly.
In September, the US had removed Colombia from its list of partners in counter-narcotics efforts but later declared the continuation of aid, citing its national interest in maintaining the support.