Trump Cuts U.S. Aid to Colombia, Labels President a Drug Dealer

U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Sunday, September 24, 2023, that he will terminate all payments and subsidies to Colombia, directly accusing Colombian President Gustavo Petro of being an “illegal drug dealer.” This decision comes amidst escalating tensions over drug production in the country, which Trump alleges has reached unprecedented levels.

In a post shared on Truth Social, Trump remarked, “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 criticized Petro for failing to take action against drug trafficking, stating that the situation has become the “biggest business in Colombia” and a long-term financial burden on the United States.

Trump’s Ultimatum to Colombia

Trump made it clear that as of that day, there would be no further financial support from the U.S., declaring, “AS OF TODAY, THESE PAYMENTS, OR ANY OTHER FORM OF PAYMENT, OR SUBSIDIES, WILL NO LONGER BE MADE TO COLOMBIA.” He emphasized the profound negative impact of drug production, particularly in relation to the sale of narcotics in the United States, which he claimed leads to “death, destruction, and havoc.”

In a sharp warning to Petro, Trump stated, “Petro, a low rated and very unpopular leader, with a fresh mouth toward America, better close up these killing fields immediately, or the United States will close them up for him, and it won’t be done nicely.” The remarks underline a growing frustration with Colombia’s approach to drug enforcement.

On the same day, Trump reported a successful military operation against “narcoterrorists,” revealing that two individuals from Colombia and Ecuador were among those apprehended. He noted that the operation intercepted a vessel carrying enough drugs to potentially kill 25,000 Americans, primarily composed of Fentanyl and other narcotics.

Response from Colombia

In light of Trump’s comments and actions, President Petro responded by saying that the individual returned to Colombia would face prosecution. “We are glad he is alive and he will be prosecuted according to the law,” Petro stated, indicating his administration’s commitment to addressing drug trafficking within the country.

Trump’s strong statements and the cessation of U.S. aid signal a significant shift in U.S.-Colombian relations, particularly concerning the ongoing battle against drug trafficking. The implications of this decision for Colombia’s economy and its efforts to combat drug production remain to be seen.

The situation highlights the complexities of international relations and the challenges of addressing drug trafficking, which has long plagued Colombia. As Trump continues to take a hardline stance, the repercussions of this decision will likely resonate in both the political and economic spheres.