Petro Defies Washington After Sanctions: “We Will Not Kneel”
The Colombian president denounces US decision, vows legal action to defend his name
Colombia, PUREWILAYAH.COM — Colombian President Gustavo Petro has issued a firm response after the United States imposed sanctions on him, his wife Veronica Alcocer, his son Nicolas Petro, and Interior Minister Armando Benedetti.
US Sanctions Target Colombia’s Leadership
The US Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) announced on Monday that the four Colombian officials had been added to the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) List.
The measure effectively freezes any assets they may have under US jurisdiction and prohibits American individuals or entities from conducting financial transactions with them.
According to OFAC’s public notice, the move falls under Washington’s counter-narcotics designations, though no detailed evidence was provided in the announcement.
Petro Confirms Sanctions and Announces Legal Defense
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), President Petro confirmed that the sanctions had been imposed, stating:
“Indeed, Bernie Moreno’s threat was carried out; my wife, my children, and I have been added to the OFAC list.”
Petro added that his legal representation in the United States will be led by Dan Kovalik, an American attorney.
“Fighting drug trafficking for decades, and effectively so, has brought upon me this measure from the government of the very society we helped so much to stop their cocaine consumption,” he said.
“We Will Not Back Down or Kneel”
Calling the sanctions a paradox, Petro described them as punishment for his government’s long-standing fight against narcotics. He emphasized that Colombia would remain steadfast in defending its sovereignty and integrity.
“We will not back down one step, and we will never kneel,” Petro declared.
The president also said he would take legal action in the United States to defend himself against what he described as slander by senior US officials.
Colombia’s Continued Role in Anti-Narcotics Efforts
Despite the dispute, Petro reiterated Colombia’s commitment to regional cooperation in combating drug trafficking:
“When the American community asks for our help in this area, it will receive it.”
Escalating Tensions with Washington
The sanctions come amid a sharp exchange between the two governments. Over the weekend, US President Donald Trump labeled Petro “an illegal drug leader” on Truth Social and announced the suspension of all US aid to Colombia.
Colombian officials condemned the remarks and warned that such actions risk escalating diplomatic tensions between Bogotá and Washington.
This marks one of the most serious confrontations between the two nations in recent years, following Petro’s repeated criticism of US drug policy and his calls for regional independence in managing anti-narcotics operations. (PW)