Colombia's President Gustavo Petro is making headlines after condemning US airstrikes targeted at alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean. In a recent interview with the BBC, Petro criticized these strikes as an 'act of tyranny,' particularly in light of the reported deaths of 17 individuals since the attacks commenced earlier this month. Petro's stance raises concerns over international human rights laws, questioning why lethal force was employed when arrests could have been made instead.
The US, led by former President Donald Trump, has justified these strikes as necessary to combat the influx of fentanyl and illegal narcotics into America. However, Petro argues that there should never be casualties in operations aimed at stopping drug smuggling. The Colombian President reminds us of prior collaborations that never resulted in fatalities, emphasizing that even a proportionality of response should only involve minimal force, such as a pistol.
The strikes have drawn criticism not only from Petro but also from various legal experts and lawmakers in Washington, expressing doubts about their legality. The controversy has further escalated diplomatic tensions between Colombia and the United States, with Petro accusing Trump of humiliating his nation. As discussions about drug policy and military intervention continue, this issue could reshape the future of US-Latin America relations.
The US, led by former President Donald Trump, has justified these strikes as necessary to combat the influx of fentanyl and illegal narcotics into America. However, Petro argues that there should never be casualties in operations aimed at stopping drug smuggling. The Colombian President reminds us of prior collaborations that never resulted in fatalities, emphasizing that even a proportionality of response should only involve minimal force, such as a pistol.
The strikes have drawn criticism not only from Petro but also from various legal experts and lawmakers in Washington, expressing doubts about their legality. The controversy has further escalated diplomatic tensions between Colombia and the United States, with Petro accusing Trump of humiliating his nation. As discussions about drug policy and military intervention continue, this issue could reshape the future of US-Latin America relations.
