Washington/Bogotá( The COW News Digital) The United States has imposed sanctions on Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of involvement in drug trafficking and illicit financial activities, according to reports from international media outlets.
Under the new sanctions, all assets belonging to President Petro within U.S. jurisdiction have been frozen, and American citizens and institutions have been prohibited from engaging in financial transactions with him or his affiliated entities.
A senior U.S. Treasury Department official stated that the decision reflects Washington’s “firm commitment to combating narcotics trafficking and corruption across Latin America.” The sanctions also target several high-ranking Colombian officials and business figures allegedly linked to illegal drug operations.
In response, the Colombian government strongly condemned the move, describing it as politically motivated interference in the country’s domestic affairs. A statement issued by President Petro’s office said, “These sanctions represent a clear violation of Colombia’s sovereignty and an attempt to pressure a democratically elected government.”
The Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reportedly begun consultations with allied nations and is considering retaliatory diplomatic measures. “We will not tolerate external meddling in Colombia’s internal policies,” a foreign ministry spokesperson said.
Global analysts believe the decision could further strain the already fragile relations between Bogotá and Washington. Tensions have escalated in recent months after U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Colombia’s leadership for “failing to curb drug exports” and threatened to cut all financial aid to the country.
Economic experts warn that the sanctions may have serious repercussions for Colombia’s international trade and investment climate. The Colombian peso fell nearly 1.5% in early trading following the announcement, signaling investor uncertainty over the growing diplomatic rift.
The U.S. government insists the measures are not aimed at the Colombian people but at ensuring accountability among those “profiting from the narcotics trade.” However, political observers argue that the move could polarize Colombia’s domestic politics and weaken cooperation on regional security issues.
As both nations brace for potential fallout, the sanctions mark a new low in U.S.-Colombia relations, raising questions about future collaboration on counter-narcotics operations and economic partnerships.
