Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez cautioned against the potential U.S. blacklisting over drug exports, stating it could lead to more cocaine entering the U.S. Amid increased coca cultivation and strained military capacities, Colombia seeks to maintain cooperation with the U.S. as it confronts drug-trafficking insurgents. Sanchez emphasizes the importance of collaboration to safeguard interests on both sides.

Colombia’s Defense Minister, Pedro Sanchez, issued a stern warning to the Trump administration regarding the potential blacklisting of Colombia for its drug exports. Sanchez emphasized that such a decision would exacerbate the cocaine flow into the United States, conflicting with U.S. interests for a safer and more prosperous nation. He stated, “Not being able to contain it would go against the interests of the United States. Because more cocaine would arrive and the United States would not be stronger, more prosperous, or safer.”

Currently, the Trump administration is deliberating whether to decertify Colombia amid concerns about drug trafficking, which could lead to the loss of significant U.S. military aid and damage Colombia’s international standing. With the September review approaching, Colombia has initiated diplomatic efforts to avert blacklisting, but many officials harbor doubts regarding the outcome. The escalating coca cultivation under President Gustavo Petro has increased by 70% since his inauguration in 2022 according to government and UN estimates.

Trump has taken a stringent approach against drug trafficking from both Mexico and Canada, imposing tariffs as repercussions. Relations between Trump and President Petro have been strained, intensifying after recent debates on migrant deportations. Colombia’s security funding historically relied on the U.S., which has invested billions to bolster its security forces against drug cartels responsible for high cocaine production.

Petro’s strategy of “total peace” has reduced military actions against drug-trafficking groups, which Sanchez noted has inadvertently strengthened certain factions, with armed fighters increasing by about 1,500 in the past year. The prospect of decertification poses a significant threat to Colombian military recovery efforts from leftist insurgencies, with Sanchez mentioning the declining military capacity due to budget cuts.

The U.S. previously decertified Colombia during Ernesto Samper’s presidency, resulting in reduced aid and foreign investment until the establishment of “Plan Colombia” to enhance security. Sanchez reaffirmed the military’s commitment to reclaiming territory from the ELN guerrillas, who control areas near the Venezuelan border and threaten peace with potential escalation to conflict. While acknowledging challenges, Sanchez asserted, “We’re going to have to make a lot of sacrifice, we’re even going to have tears, but in the end, we’re going to achieve it.”

Overall, Sanchez’s warning represents Colombia’s urgent plea for collaboration against drug trafficking, emphasizing the repercussions of strained U.S.-Colombia relations as the nation strives to combat narco-trafficking effectively.

In conclusion, Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez has raised critical concerns over the potential blacklisting by the Trump administration, emphasizing that such a move could adversely affect cocaine trafficking and U.S. interests. The call for cooperation is vital as Colombia navigates increased drug cultivation and strained military capabilities. Despite challenges, the Colombian military aims to reclaim territories from insurgent groups while facing international scrutiny. The evolving relationship with the U.S. remains pivotal in addressing the longstanding issues of drug trafficking and security in Colombia.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr

Related posts:

Colombia Urges U.S. to Reconsider Drug Blacklisting in Light of Rising Coca Production Colombia’s Defense Minister Urges U.S. Not to Blacklist Amid Drug Concerns Colombia’s Defense Minister Warns Against U.S. Drug Blacklisting Colombia Cautions Trump Administration Against Drug Trafficking Blacklisting