Colombia Ends Intelligence Sharing With US Over Strikes on Boats
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has halted intelligence sharing with the U.S. in response to U.S. military strikes targeting drug traffickers in the Caribbean, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties. Petro's decision reflects escalating tensions between the two nations, historically allies in combating drug trafficking, as he emphasizes the need for human rights protections over anti-drug operations. The U.S. has conducted over 75 strikes since August, with recent actions shifting towards the eastern Pacific, prompting Petro to call for an investigation of President Trump for alleged war crimes. The U.S. administration has responded with sanctions against Petro and his family, accusing him of enabling drug cartels. The future of Colombia-U.S. cooperation in drug enforcement remains uncertain amidst these developments.
Dive Deeper:
President Petro's directive to cease intelligence sharing was announced on November 11, 2025, amid ongoing criticism of U.S. strikes against suspected drug traffickers, which have been compared to extrajudicial executions.
The strikes, which began in the Caribbean and progressed to the eastern Pacific, have reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 75 individuals since August, raising alarm over collateral damage.
Petro has publicly called for an investigation into President Trump's actions, highlighting the impact of U.S. military operations on civilian populations in neighboring countries like Venezuela and Ecuador.
In late October, the Trump administration imposed financial sanctions on Petro and his family, citing claims of his complicity in drug trafficking, which Petro vehemently denies.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stated that Petro's inaction against drug cartels justified the U.S. response, emphasizing a commitment to protecting American interests from drug trafficking.