Colombian President Petro Downplays US Aid Cut Impact but Flags Military Funding Risks Amid Trump Dispute

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has downplayed the impact of the United States suspending aid to Colombia, stating that such aid largely benefits U.S. agencies rather than Colombia's government or society. However, he warned that cuts to U.S. military funding, particularly the loss of U.S. helicopters, could significantly undermine Colombia's operational capabilities and national security. The suspension of aid follows U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to halt all funding and threaten increased tariffs amid tensions over drug policy and military actions in the Caribbean. Petro criticized U.S. military strikes causing civilian casualties and condemned the Trump administration's characterization of him with derogatory terms, which has sparked political backlash in Colombia. Despite recalling Colombia's ambassador from Washington, Petro continues to maintain communication with U.S. representatives in Bogotá, emphasizing cooperation on drug trafficking only with respect to Colombia's sovereignty. The Trump administration's "decertification" of Colombia's anti-narcotics efforts suggests potential for further aid cuts, even as military cooperation and intelligence sharing persist.