U.S. President Donald J. Trump on Sunday condemned Colombian President Gustavo Petro, labeling him a “lunatic” and the “worst president they’ve ever had,” as he declared an end to U.S. funding for Colombia over its alleged role in cocaine production. The remarks came aboard Air Force One, where Trump accused Colombia of failing to combat drug trafficking, stating, “They make drugs, they refine drugs, they make cocaine, they have cocaine factories… I’m stopping all payments to Colombia because they don’t have anything to do with their fight against drugs.”
U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC) confirmed the decision on social media, claiming Trump would impose significant tariffs on Colombia “where it hurts, in the wallet.” Colombian President Petro responded by defending his administration’s efforts against drug cartels and criticizing Trump’s approach as “a failed strategy,” comparing U.S. military actions to civilian casualties in conflicts like Gaza. He emphasized his government’s commitment to “aid and the common good,” rejecting accusations of involvement in drug trafficking.
The move coincides with expanded U.S. anti-cartel operations in Latin America, targeting regions including Venezuela, where Nicolás Maduro’s regime has faced sustained scrutiny.
