Trump Cuts Colombia Aid After Petro’s Criticism of Drug Strikes

President Donald Trump announced on October 8, 2023, that the United States will suspend foreign aid to Colombia following a critical statement from Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The move comes after Petro accused the U.S. of committing murder through its military operations targeting drug-trafficking vessels.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump responded sharply to Petro’s remarks, which were made on social media platform X. Petro had referred to a September 2 strike on a boat believed to be involved in drug trafficking, asserting that the U.S. actions were akin to murder. Trump countered that Petro was engaged in “a long-term rip off of America” and claimed that he has failed to address the rampant drug production in Colombia.

According to Trump, “President Gustavo Petro, of Colombia, is an illegal drug leader strongly encouraging the massive production of drugs, in big and small fields, all over Colombia.” He highlighted that drug production has become Colombia’s most significant business, with U.S. aid contributing to what he termed a “long-term rip off.”

Trump declared, “AS OF TODAY, THESE PAYMENTS, OR ANY OTHER FORM OF PAYMENT, OR SUBSIDIES, WILL NO LONGER BE MADE TO COLOMBIA.” He further stated that the drug production is primarily aimed at supplying the U.S. market, leading to significant societal harm.

In his post, Trump described Petro as “a low-rated and very unpopular leader” and warned that if Colombia does not curb its drug production, the U.S. would take stronger action. “Better close up these killing fields immediately, or the United States will close them up for him, and it won’t be done nicely,” he added.

The U.S. military, under Trump’s leadership, has conducted multiple strikes against vessels suspected of drug trafficking. A recent video released by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth showcased a military operation targeting a boat linked to the National Liberation Army (ELN), a Colombian terrorist organization. This operation underscores the ongoing U.S. efforts to combat drug trafficking, which have faced criticism from various political factions, including some Democrats and Republican Senator Rand Paul.

Despite the backlash, the U.S. Senate recently blocked an attempt to halt these military strikes. Trump had earlier issued an executive order designating Mexican drug cartels, the Tren de Aragua (TdA), and the El Salvadoran gang MS-13 as foreign terrorist organizations shortly after assuming office on January 20, 2025.

The suspension of aid to Colombia signifies a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding its approach to drug trafficking and relations with South American nations. As this situation evolves, the implications for both countries remain to be seen, particularly in the realm of drug enforcement and international cooperation.