U.S. DEA Designates Colombian President Petro as ‘Priority Target’ Amid Drug Trafficking Probe

New York – U.S. Federal prosecutors are investigating Colombian President Gustavo Petro’s alleged ties to drug traffickers, leading the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to designate him as a “priority target,” according to sources familiar with the matter and records reviewed by the Associated Press. The investigation has been ongoing since 2022, fueled by interviews with confidential informants.

Allegations of Cartel Connections and Campaign Funding

The DEA is investigating potential dealings between Petro and Mexico’s Sinaloa cartel, as well as a scheme to exploit his “total peace” plan for the benefit of drug traffickers who allegedly contributed to his 2022 presidential campaign. Records also suggest potential involvement of law enforcement officials in smuggling cocaine and fentanyl through Colombian ports.

‘Priority Target’ Designation

The “priority target” label is reserved by the DEA for individuals deemed to have a “significant impact” on the drug trade.

Petro’s Response

President Petro has vehemently denied all allegations of ties to drug traffickers and claims he never accepted funds from them during his campaign. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, he argued that the U.S. Legal proceedings would ultimately disprove accusations originating from Colombia’s far-right political factions, whom he accuses of being involved with traffickers.

Diplomatic Response

Colombia’s Embassy in Washington has downplayed the reports, characterizing them as “unverified” and based on preliminary, anonymous investigations.

Recent White House Meeting

The developments reach after a meeting between Petro and U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House last month. Following the meeting, Petro shared a photo of a note from Trump that read, “A great honor. I love Colombia,” accompanied by the president’s signature. This meeting occurred after months of sanctions and tense exchanges between the two leaders.

Petro’s Political Background

Petro, a former guerrilla fighter, was elected president in 2022, marking the first time a left-wing president was elected in Colombia’s history.

Previous Accusations and Sanctions

In October of last year, Petro defended himself against similar accusations and was subsequently placed on the U.S. Sanctions list alongside his family. Trump previously labeled Petro a “sick man who likes to make cocaine and sell it to the United States.”