WASHINGTON – The U.S. government, under former President Donald Trump, moved to revoke the visa of Colombian President Gustavo Petro following Petro’s remarks regarding New York City police during a United Nations event last week, Univision News has learned. The decision escalates a simmering diplomatic conflict between the two nations, rooted in disagreements over immigration policy adn trade.
The visa revocation stems from Petro’s comments at the UN General assembly, where he criticized instances of police brutality in the united states, specifically referencing new York City. U.S. officials allege Petro’s statements amounted to inciting violence, a claim the colombian government vehemently denies.This action follows a pattern of strained relations that began shortly after President Trump’s return to the White House in january of the previous year.
The initial friction arose when Petro refused to authorize landings for two U.S. military planes carrying deported Colombian citizens, protesting what he characterized as inhumane treatment during their expulsion from the United States. Trump responded with threats of tariffs on Colombian imports and visa cancellations for Colombian government officials. While a diplomatic dialog led to the resumption of deportation flights, tensions remained unresolved.
Further complicating the relationship, the Trump administration previously suspended tariffs and sanctions against Colombia following the dispute over the deported migrants.However, this latest move regarding Petro’s visa signals a renewed hardening of the U.S. position. The Colombian government has not yet issued a formal response to the visa revocation, but sources indicate thay are preparing a strong rebuttal. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for future cooperation on issues such as drug trafficking and regional security.
