Colombia Suspends Intelligence Sharing with US Over Airstrikes on Alleged Drug Boats

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has announced the suspension of intelligence sharing with the United States in response to its airstrikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean. The decision comes after reports emerged that the US had conducted airstrikes on small vessels, resulting in at least 76 deaths, according to Pentagon figures. Petro made the announcement on social media, stating that the suspension would remain in effect for as long as the US continues the attacks.

The Colombian leader has condemned the airstrikes as a violation of human rights, arguing that the fight against drugs must be subordinated to the human rights of the Caribbean people. The Pentagon claims that the ongoing operations, ordered by President Donald Trump, target drug smuggling vessels allegedly operating out of Venezuela and Colombia. However, Petro has called the strikes illegal and has denied allegations that his administration has ties to drug cartels.

The US government has imposed sanctions on Petro, his family, and several cabinet members, citing alleged links to drug cartels. The Colombian president has denied these claims, pointing to his administration’s efforts to dismantle trafficking networks. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has also condemned the US campaign, suggesting that Washington should focus on addressing the issue of drug trafficking in Europe instead of targeting Venezuela.

The US airstrikes have sparked concerns that the operation could be a cover for regime change efforts in Venezuela. Critics argue that the Trump administration has provided no verifiable evidence linking the targets to drug cartels. The situation has escalated tensions between the US and Colombia, with Petro’s administration seeking to prioritize human rights and sovereignty over cooperation with the US on counter-narcotics efforts.

The suspension of intelligence sharing is a significant development in the diplomatic spat between the two countries. It remains to be seen how the US will respond to Colombia’s decision and whether the situation will escalate further. The international community is watching the situation closely, with many calling for a more nuanced approach to addressing the complex issue of drug trafficking in the region.