The United States has announced plans to revoke the visa of Colombian President Gustavo Petro after he urged American troops to defy orders from Donald Trump during a pro-Palestinian rally in New York.
Petro’s Call at UN Protest
Speaking outside the United Nations on Friday, Mr Petro demanded the creation of a global armed force to prioritise Palestinian freedom. Addressing the demonstration in Spanish, he declared:
“I ask all the soldiers of the army of the United States not to point their guns at people. Disobey the orders of Trump. Obey the orders of humanity.”
The rally drew hundreds of supporters and included appearances from Pink Floyd’s Roger Waters, a longtime critic of US foreign policy.
State Department Moves Swiftly
Hours later, the US State Department posted on X that it would revoke Mr Petro’s visa, calling his words “reckless and incendiary.” Officials said his presence in the country could no longer be considered appropriate given his call for insubordination within the US military.
Sharp Criticism of Trump and Israel
Mr Petro, a consistent critic of Israel’s war in Gaza, used his speech at the UN General Assembly earlier in the week to accuse Mr Trump of being “complicit in genocide.” He also demanded “criminal proceedings” over US missile strikes on boats in the Caribbean allegedly linked to drug traffickers.
Reports of US Military Action
According to NBC, citing US officials, Washington is weighing possible drone strikes against trafficking networks in Venezuela. Planning is said to be in advanced stages, though Mr Trump has not yet approved direct action.
Naval Deployment in the Caribbean
At least eight US Navy ships carrying over 4,000 personnel are currently stationed in the Caribbean. The fleet has been bolstered by F-35 fighter jets, reflecting heightened tensions in the region.
Trump Cites Boat Attacks
Mr Trump claimed on Truth Social that American forces had already destroyed three Venezuelan boats allegedly carrying traffickers and narcotics. However, he provided no evidence that drugs were present on all the targeted vessels.
Maduro Accused of Cartel Links
Washington continues to accuse Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro of colluding with cartels to send cocaine, fentanyl and criminal groups to the US. The State Department is offering a $50 million reward for his capture.
Venezuela’s Role in Drug Routes
While Venezuela is not a primary cocaine producer, it is widely seen as a departure hub for flights transporting narcotics. By contrast, most fentanyl entering the US originates in Mexico, according to law enforcement agencies.
Colombia’s Position Complicated
Colombia has traditionally been America’s strongest ally in anti-narcotics efforts. Yet ties between Washington and Bogotá have frayed since Mr Petro assumed office, particularly over immigration and counter-drug disputes.
Clash Over Deportation Flights
Shortly after Mr Trump returned to office in January, Mr Petro blocked US deportation flights from landing in Colombia. The standoff was resolved only after threats of reciprocal tariffs and the suspension of US visa appointments for Colombians.
Washington Adds Colombia to Blacklist
Earlier this month, the State Department included Colombia on a list of nations it accused of failing to uphold counter-narcotics obligations. Officials blamed Petro’s political leadership for the alleged shortcomings.
Petro’s Defiance Resonates
Despite criticism, Mr Petro’s comments have drawn praise from pro-Palestinian activists who view his stance as a challenge to US dominance in global affairs. His appearance alongside cultural figures such as Roger Waters added symbolic weight to his message.
US Sees “Dangerous Precedent”
American officials insist Petro’s rhetoric threatens to encourage insubordination in the military and undermines trust between allies. The decision to revoke his visa marks one of the strongest public rebukes of a sitting Latin American head of state in recent years.
Future Relations Uncertain
The escalating dispute raises questions about the future of US-Colombia relations. Analysts warn the row could complicate regional cooperation on both migration and drug enforcement.
Petro Vows to Keep Speaking Out
Mr Petro has yet to respond formally to the visa decision. However, in earlier remarks, he pledged to continue criticising Washington’s policies on Gaza, vowing that Colombia would not remain silent on issues of “oppression and genocide.”
