Colombia Urges U.S. to Reconsider Drug Blacklisting in Light of Rising Coca Production
Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez warns against U.S. decertification over drug trafficking issues, which could lead to increased cocaine flow to the United States and jeopardize military aid. The country is undergoing a diplomatic offensive amid rising coca cultivation since President Petro took office. Sanchez emphasizes the need to counteract armed groups while addressing the challenges posed by enhanced diplomatic tensions with the Trump administration.
Colombia’s Defense Minister, Pedro Sanchez, issued a warning regarding the potential decertification of Colombia as a partner in the fight against drug trafficking by the Trump administration. He emphasized that this designation might exacerbate the flow of cocaine into the United States. Sanchez indicated that any loss of capability to address this threat would ultimately undermine U.S. interests, stating that such actions would lead to an increase in cocaine availability and pose safety concerns for the United States.
Amid a looming U.S. review in September, Colombia is engaged in a diplomatic effort to avert blacklisting, which could jeopardize nearly $500 million in annual military aid. Since the administration of President Gustavo Petro began in 2022, coca cultivation has surged by approximately 70%. Trump’s administration has adopted stringent measures against drug imports from neighboring countries, further straining relations with Colombia.
Under President Petro’s policy of “total peace,” military operations against drug gangs have diminished, contributing to the empowerment of armed groups. Sanchez noted a rise in armed fighters, attributing this growth to their exploitation of government leniency. The Colombian military, already struggling from budget cuts and degraded capabilities, would suffer significantly from a decertification.
Past experiences have shown the detrimental effects of decertification, as seen during Ernesto Samper’s presidency, where it led to halted aid and reduced foreign investment. While the Colombian military aims to regain territorial control against groups like ELN, which currently controls areas near the Venezuelan border, Sanchez has asserted that the Colombian government intends to respond decisively to any threats posed by such groups, vowing to reclaim regions under narco-terrorist influence.
In summary, Colombia faces a significant challenge in defending its status as a partner in combatting drug trafficking amidst warning signs from the Trump administration about possible decertification. The increase in coca cultivation, combined with a shift in military strategy under President Petro, has raised concerns about the effectiveness of current measures against drug cartels. The Colombian government maintains its commitment to restoring territorial control and overcoming the threats posed by armed groups, despite the challenges ahead.
Original Source: www.france24.com
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