U.S. Revokes Colombian President’s Visa After Controversial Call for American Soldiers to Defy Trump

Tensions are rising between the United States and Colombia after a recent event involving Colombian President Gustavo Petro. The U.S. State Department announced it has revoked Petro’s visa. This decision came after he spoke at a protest in New York, urging American soldiers to disobey President Donald Trump’s orders.

During an appearance at the annual U.N. General Assembly, Petro criticized the U.S. military’s involvement in global conflicts. He said, “I ask all the soldiers of the United States’ army, don’t point your rifles against humanity,” urging them to act against orders he deemed harmful. This was part of a broader protest concerning the war in Gaza. Upon returning to Colombia, Petro learned about his visa status and commented that international law protects his right to speak freely at the U.N.

As Colombia’s first leftist president, Petro often voices strong opinions. In response to the U.S. action, he stated on social media, “I don’t care” about the visa revocation, highlighting that he holds European citizenship and does not need a visa to travel to the U.S.

Historical context shows that Colombia has been a key U.S. ally, particularly in the fight against drug trafficking. However, tensions have surfaced under Petro’s leadership. This includes a diplomatic crisis earlier this year when he opposed deportation flights involving American military aircraft, highlighting the friction between his administration and Trump’s.

Colombia broke diplomatic ties with Israel last year over the Israel-Hamas war, with Petro labeling Israel’s actions as genocide. He has also called for investigations into U.S. military operations in the Caribbean.

The U.S. accused Colombia of not cooperating adequately on anti-narcotics efforts, a claim that Petro rejected, noting the lives lost in the fight against cocaine trafficking.

According to a recent Pew Research Center study, about 57% of Colombians view the U.S. favorably, but this percentage reflects a decrease over the past few years, indicating growing skepticism towards American influence in Colombian affairs.

This shift can be attributed to a mix of factors, including dissatisfaction with U.S. drug policy and its impact on Colombian lives. Social media platforms are buzzing with discussions about Petro’s bold stance, with many supporters praising his courage to stand up to the U.S.

The evolving dynamics between the U.S. and Colombia highlight a significant moment in Latin American politics, as leaders increasingly challenge historical power dynamics and assert their sovereignty.



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