BOGOTÁ – Colombian President Gustavo Petro issued a firm directive to the nation’s military, responding to former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent accusations linking Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro to a major drug trafficking organization known as the “cartel of the Suns,” and implicitly threatening Colombia‘s anti-drug efforts. Petro’s address, delivered at a public event, underscored Colombia’s commitment to combating drug trafficking while defending its sovereignty.
The exchange escalates tensions between the two countries amid ongoing U.S. pressure on Venezuela and scrutiny of Colombia’s drug policy. Trump publicly identified Maduro as the head of the Cartel of the Suns, an allegation the U.S. government has maintained, asserting the organization is deeply involved in international drug trafficking. Petro, in turn, referenced the past toll of drug trafficking on Colombian leaders and citizens, stating, “how much blood comes from you or from the National Police and from ordinary Colombians and from those who are not ordinary…Because how many leaders of this country have not died in the hands of drug trafficking.” He then emphatically declared, ”With life,” signaling his resolve to confront the issue.
Petro further cautioned against corruption, stating, “We all know here that drug trafficking can buy the greedy heart…we do not allow ourselves to be bought, we are not for sale.” His remarks come as Colombia navigates a shift in its drug policy, prioritizing a more holistic approach focused on reducing demand and offering alternative livelihoods to coca farmers, rather than solely relying on eradication efforts.
The U.S. government has previously indicted Maduro and other high-ranking Venezuelan officials on narcotics trafficking charges,offering rewards for information leading to their arrest. The Cartel of the Suns is alleged to be a powerful organization comprised of Venezuelan military officials involved in the production and export of cocaine. Petro’s response signals Colombia’s determination to address drug trafficking on its own terms, even as it faces external pressure and accusations.
