Last Friday, President Trump authorized a strike on a vessel linked to a Colombian group labeled as Al Qaeda-like by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The attack occurred in international waters and targeted a boat allegedly smuggling narcotics, with three individuals killed. Hours later, Trump accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of enabling drug production, citing U.S. funding provided to Colombia as a “long-term rip off.” Trump announced the immediate cessation of all American financial support to Colombia, warning that further actions would follow if Petro failed to address the issue.
Hegseth confirmed the strike was conducted under Trump’s directive, stating the vessel was associated with the National Liberation Army (ELN), a designated terrorist organization. He described the group as a “Al Qaeda of the Western Hemisphere” and emphasized U.S. military efforts to dismantle narcotics networks. However, Petro denied the boat’s connection to ELN, calling it a fishing vessel belonging to a “humble family” and condemning the strike as an act of violence against civilians.
The dispute escalates tensions between Washington and Bogotá, with Trump framing Petro as complicit in drug trafficking despite Colombia’s efforts to combat narcotics. The U.S. had previously reduced aid to Colombia by over $500 million, a move critics argue undermines regional stability. Meanwhile, Petro accused the Trump administration of violating sovereignty and demanded explanations for the attack on the vessel, which he claimed was adrift due to mechanical failure.
The conflict underscores broader geopolitical tensions, with U.S. officials linking Latin American drug networks to threats against national security. As the standoff intensifies, questions remain about the long-term implications for U.S.-Colombian relations and the region’s role in global narcotics trade.