DEA Names Colombian President Petro a ‘Priority Target’ in US Drug Trafficking Probe

Gustavo Petro, the President of Colombia, has been designated a “priority target” by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as federal prosecutors in Novel York investigate his alleged ties to drug traffickers, according to reports from the Associated Press and Al Jazeera. The investigation centers on potential connections between Petro and drug smuggling operations in Latin America.

Investigation Details

U.S. Prosecutors in Brooklyn and Manhattan are reportedly questioning drug traffickers about their relationships with Petro and allegations that his representatives solicited bribes in exchange for blocking extraditions to the United States as reported by Al Jazeera. The DEA records indicate Petro has been a subject of investigation since 2022, with information gathered from confidential informants.

The inquiry reportedly focuses on potential dealings with Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel and a scheme to exploit Petro’s “total peace” plan to benefit traffickers who allegedly contributed to his 2022 presidential campaign. Allegations also include the potential use of law enforcement to facilitate the smuggling of cocaine and fentanyl through Colombian ports according to the AP.

Petro’s Response

Petro has vehemently denied any ties to drug traffickers, stating on X (formerly Twitter) that he has “never in my life spoken with a drug trafficker” as reported by Al Jazeera. He attributes the accusations to Colombia’s right-wing opposition, claiming they are the ones involved with drug trafficking. He also stated he instructed his campaign managers not to accept donations from bankers or drug traffickers.

Government Response

Colombia’s Embassy in Washington has dismissed the reports as “unverified” and lacking a “legal or factual basis” according to the AP. The U.S. Federal prosecutors and the DEA have not yet issued public comments on the investigation.

Previous Allegations and Family Involvement

Petro has previously faced allegations of drug trafficking, including accusations made by former President Donald Trump and a 2025 sanction by the U.S. Treasury Department, though no evidence was provided at the time as reported by DW.

Members of Petro’s family have also been under scrutiny. His son, Nicolás Petro, was charged in 2023 with soliciting illegal campaign contributions from a convicted drug trafficker, though he has pleaded not guilty according to the AP. Petro’s brother, Juan Fernando Petro, has also been implicated in alleged negotiations with imprisoned drug traffickers regarding extradition.

Historical Context

Colombia has a long history of political involvement with drug cartels, dating back to the 1980s with Pablo Escobar and the Cali cartel as noted by the AP. The 19th of April Movement, a former guerrilla group to which Petro belonged, has also been suspected of receiving funding from drug cartels.

The investigations are in their early stages, and it remains unclear whether they will lead to any charges. The White House has stated it has no role in the investigations according to the AP.