Summary
President Donald Trump announced that the U.S. will impose tariffs on Colombia and reduce aid due to its handling of drug production. Trump criticized Colombian President Gustavo Petro, accusing him of failing to combat drug operations. Petro responded by defending his efforts against drug trafficking and criticized Trump's remarks.
Key Facts
- President Trump announced that the U.S. will stop aid to Colombia and will add tariffs on Colombian exports.
- Trump accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of failing to tackle drug production effectively.
- Petro defended himself, stating that he is actively fighting drug trafficking in Colombia.
- The Colombian Foreign Ministry viewed Trump's remarks as a threat to their national sovereignty.
- U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth mentioned a U.S. strike on a boat linked to a Colombian rebel group.
- Colombia received around $230 million in the last U.S. fiscal year, down from over $700 million in the past.
- Colombia is currently the world’s largest exporter of cocaine, and coca cultivation has increased recently.
- Colombia is a significant U.S. ally and has been a major recipient of U.S. assistance for many years.
