Colombia’s Defense Minister warns of potential blacklisting by the Trump administration which could hinder US military aid and exacerbate cocaine trafficking. Recent policy shifts from President Petro have increased coca cultivation. Diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent a cut in US support, as the country faces security challenges from drug cartels and armed groups.

Colombia’s Defense Minister, Pedro Sanchez, has issued a warning to the Trump administration regarding the potential blacklisting of Colombia for inadequate efforts to impede drug exports. Sanchez articulated that such a decision would likely exacerbate cocaine proliferation into the United States. Current deliberations in Washington on whether to “decertify” Colombia could restrict crucial military aid and severely damage the nation’s international standing.

In an interview with AFP, Minister Sanchez emphasized that decertification would hinder Colombia’s capacity to combat drug trafficking effectively. He remarked, “Not being able to contain it would go against the interests of the United States… More cocaine would arrive, and the United States would not be stronger, more prosperous, or safer.” He further reiterated that deteriorating relations could create an advantageous environment for drug traffickers.

Colombia is actively engaging in diplomatic efforts to avert blacklisting, with the critical US assessment scheduled for September. However, many Colombian officials express concern that blacklisting is imminent, which could jeopardize nearly $500 million in annual US financial support. Since the inauguration of President Gustavo Petro in 2022, coca cultivation areas have escalated by approximately 70%, according to estimates from Colombian authorities and the United Nations.

President Trump has taken a stringent approach against drug imports from neighboring countries, resorting to tariffs as punitive measures. Relations between Trump and President Petro have been strained, particularly after a recent public disagreement regarding migrant deportations, during which Trump threatened sanctions.

The United States has historically invested billions in Colombia’s protective infrastructure, aiding in significantly reducing insurgent and cartel activities. Nonetheless, Petro’s “total peace” agenda has curtailed military operations against drug cartels and halted compulsory coca eradication efforts. Minister Sanchez acknowledged that this initiative has emboldened certain armed factions, with the ranks of fighters increasing by approximately 1,500 over the past year.

The ramifications of decertification would be deeply concerning for the Colombian military, as it works to regain strength and territorial command from insurgent groups. Sanchez observed budget cuts had impaired military capabilities, with examples including diminished intelligence resources and technological advancements such as drones. He stated, “We don’t have the same aircraft flying that we had 10 years ago.”

Colombia had previously faced US decertification under President Ernesto Samper in the mid-1990s, resulting in frozen aid and reduced foreign investment. A revived partnership was later established with the implementation of “Plan Colombia,” a substantial US initiative aimed at reforming Colombian security forces. Despite the ongoing difficulties, Sanchez affirmed the military’s primary objective—to reassert control over Colombia’s territory.

In regions dominated by ELN guerrillas, violent confrontations have caused significant displacement among local communities, with approximately 56,000 individuals affected. In a recent discussion, ELN leaders expressed intentions to resist government military efforts, warning that the pursuit of “total peace” might escalate into “total war.” Sanchez dismissed the group as mere “narco-criminals” and pledged to respond with overwhelming force, asserting that reclaiming coca-producing territories is essential to Colombia’s objectives. He stated, “It’s a wicked problem… we’re going to make a lot of sacrifices,” expressing determination in this endeavor.

In summary, Colombia’s Defense Minister has cautioned the Trump administration against the ramifications of potentially blacklisting Colombia for insufficient drug control measures. This action could hinder cooperation and increase cocaine importation into the United States. Recent shifts in Colombian policy under President Petro have heightened coca cultivation, prompting ongoing diplomatic efforts to maintain US military aid and support amidst challenging security dynamics within Colombia. The success of these initiatives depends significantly on the government’s capability to address both internal and external pressures regarding drug trafficking and territorial disputes.

Original Source: www.ndtv.com

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