Colombia’s Defense Minister warned the Trump administration against blacklisting the country over drug export failures, asserting that it would increase cocaine trafficking into the U.S. He highlighted the adverse implications of decertification, such as loss of military aid and deterioration of U.S.-Colombia relations, amidst rising coca cultivation under President Petro’s policies.

Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez has issued a caution to the United States, specifically to the Trump administration, regarding the potential blacklisting of Colombia for its drug export challenges. He emphasized that such a designation could exacerbate cocaine trafficking into the United States, ultimately threatening U.S. interests. Sanchez stated that decertification would impair Colombia’s efforts to combat drug threats effectively, leading to increased cocaine shipments to the U.S.

Colombia is currently engaged in vigorous diplomatic efforts to avert blacklisting ahead of a U.S. review set for September. Despite these initiatives, there remains a significant level of pessimism among officials regarding the avoidance of such a designation, which could jeopardize nearly half a billion dollars in annual U.S. military funding. Under President Gustavo Petro, the area of coca cultivation has surged by approximately 70%, raising concerns about the country’s drug control effectiveness.

President Trump has maintained a stringent approach towards narcotics flowing into the United States, applying tariffs on Mexico and Canada. The recent animosity between Trump and President Petro has escalated tensions, particularly following social media disputes concerning migrant deportations. Sanchez conveyed the view that a rupture in U.S.-Colombia relations would create openings for drug traffickers, resulting in more drug-related challenges.

Historically, the United States has invested billions into Colombian security, aiding in the fight against insurgents and drug cartels responsible for producing the majority of cocaine in the U.S. However, the current strategy of “total peace” under President Petro has subdued military operations against drug-trafficking militia and discontinued forced eradication of coca crops. Sanchez acknowledged that this policy adjustment has allowed armed groups to flourish, as evidenced by the addition of 1,500 fighters over the past year.

Should Colombia receive a decertification, it would significantly weaken the military amid efforts to reclaim territory from insurgent groups. Sanchez remarked on the diminished military capabilities and resource limitations faced, particularly in intelligence and advanced technology such as drones. Although Colombia experienced a previous decertification in the 1990s, which resulted in funding freezes and reduced foreign investment, assistance was later reinstated following the introduction of “Plan Colombia.”

Despite these ongoing obstacles, Sanchez expressed confidence in the military’s commitment to regain control over Colombian territory. He pointed to ELN guerrillas currently operating near the Venezuelan border, where ongoing conflict has displaced thousands. Sanchez condemned the ELN as a “narco-criminal group” while asserting a strong governmental response is imperative to counteract their influence. He stated that retaking control from such factions would be a challenging endeavor but remained hopeful for a successful outcome, indicating that sacrifices will be necessary to achieve this goal.

In summary, Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez urges the U.S. administration to reconsider its potential decertification of Colombia concerning drug exports. The situation is exacerbated by rising coca cultivation and the internal challenges faced by the Colombian military under the “total peace” policy. Sanchez warns that blacklisting would hinder efforts to control drug trafficking, adversely impacting U.S. interests. The urgency for diplomatic resolutions remains paramount as Colombia strives for territorial control amidst growing insecurity.

Original Source: www.bryantimes.com

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