Diplomatic Tensions Escalate Between the U.S. and Colombia
The United States has taken a significant step in its diplomatic relationship with Colombia by revoking the visa of President Gustavo Petro. This decision comes in response to Petro’s public appeal for U.S. soldiers to disobey orders from President Donald Trump, marking a sharp escalation in tensions between Washington and Bogota.
Petro’s Public Appeal for Disobedience
During a speech addressed to pro-Palestinian demonstrators outside the United Nations headquarters in New York City on September 26, 2025, Petro called on U.S. military personnel to “disobey the orders of Trump” and instead “obey the orders of humanity.” His remarks were widely shared on social media, sparking immediate backlash from the U.S. government.
In the video, Petro stated: “It (the global force) has to be bigger than that of the United States. That’s why from here, from New York, I ask all the soldiers of the army of the US not to point their rifles at humanity.” The message was seen as a direct challenge to U.S. military authority and a provocative stance on international relations.
U.S. Response and Visa Revocation
Following the incident, the U.S. State Department issued a statement via X, stating: “Earlier today, Colombian president (Gustavo Petro) stood on a NYC street and urged U.S. soldiers to disobey orders and incite violence. We will revoke Petro’s visa due to his reckless and incendiary actions.”
This move reflects growing concerns within the U.S. administration about Petro’s rhetoric and its potential implications on national security and international diplomacy. The decision to revoke the visa is seen as a strong signal of disapproval and could have long-term consequences for bilateral relations.
Petro’s Reactions and International Law Claims
In response to the visa revocation, Petro criticized the U.S. government, claiming that the action violates international norms. He argued that the U.S. is no longer adhering to international law, citing the denial of entry to the Palestinian Authority and his own visa revocation as evidence.
Petro also accused the U.S. of being complicit in what he described as a “genocide” in Gaza, where Israel has intensified its military operations. His comments align with a recent United Nations inquiry that concluded for the first time that Israel has committed genocide against Palestinians in Gaza—a claim that Israel strongly denies.
Broader Context of U.S.-Colombia Relations
Petro’s remarks come amid a history of tension between the two nations. The Colombian president has had a rocky relationship with the Trump administration, particularly over issues related to migration and drug trafficking. Earlier this year, Petro blocked the landing of two U.S. military flights carrying deported migrants, accusing the U.S. of treating Colombians as criminals.
Despite these conflicts, Colombia has traditionally been a key ally of the U.S. in South America, especially in matters of national security and defense. However, recent developments suggest a shift in the dynamics of this alliance.
Additional Criticisms and Calls for Accountability
During his address at the United Nations General Assembly, Petro also called for criminal proceedings against U.S. strikes on suspected drug traffickers in international waters around South America. This further highlights his dissatisfaction with U.S. policies and actions in the region.
The situation underscores the complex interplay between political rhetoric, international law, and diplomatic relations. As both nations navigate these challenges, the implications for regional stability and global alliances remain significant.
Ongoing Developments and Future Outlook
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the U.S. and Colombia will manage their strained relationship. The revocation of Petro’s visa is a clear indication of the current state of affairs, but it also raises questions about the future of U.S.-Colombian cooperation and the broader geopolitical landscape in Latin America.
