Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez warned against U.S. decertification, arguing it would worsen the cocaine crisis in America. He cited increased coca cultivation and military limitations under President Gustavo Petro. Sanchez vowed to reclaim territory controlled by drug groups while emphasizing the risks of strained U.S.-Colombia relations.

On March 17, Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez cautioned the Trump administration against the potential blacklisting of Colombia as a drug-exporting nation. This decertification could result in increased cocaine flow into the United States and harm diplomatic relations between the two nations. Sanchez emphasized that this action would undermine U.S. interests, as it would not promote a safer or more prosperous America.

In response to Washington’s deliberation on decertification that could threaten nearly $500 million in military aid, Colombia has initiated a diplomatic effort. Since President Gustavo Petro’s election in 2022, coca cultivation in Colombia has surged by 70%, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current measures to combat drug trafficking.

Historically, the United States has invested significantly in Colombia’s military to combat drug cartels, which produce over 90% of cocaine in America. However, Petro’s policy of “total peace” has led to reduced military actions against drug trafficking organizations and a halt to forced coca eradication efforts, resulting in an increase of armed groups.

Sanchez lamented the weakening of military capabilities over recent years, attributing this to reduced funding. He highlighted that advancements in critical technology, such as drone warfare, have lagged behind, impacting their effectiveness in combating drug trafficking.

The U.S. previously decertified Colombia during Ernesto Samper’s presidency, leading to frozen aid and diminished foreign investment. Although relations were eventually repaired leading to “Plan Colombia,” Sanchez expresses a determination to regain territorial control and confront groups like the ELN, which currently controls strategic land in Colombia.

Sanchez rebuffed ELN claims of resistance against the government’s counteroffensive, characterizing them as a “narco-criminal group.” He remains committed to reclaiming coca-producing regions while acknowledging the challenges and sacrifices that this entails. “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,” Sanchez stated.

In conclusion, Colombia’s Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez has strongly warned the Trump administration against the potential decertification of Colombia as an ally in the drug war, asserting that such a measure could exacerbate the cocaine crisis in the United States. As Colombia battles rising coca cultivation and armed groups, the need for continued diplomatic relations and mutual cooperation remains paramount to addressing the drug trafficking challenge effectively.

Original Source: www.malaymail.com

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