US Revokes Visa of Colombian President Gustavo Petro Amid UN Visit Controversy

US Revokes Colombian President's Visa After UN Visit The US State Department announced on Friday that it would revoke the visa of Colombian President Gustavo Petro, citing his "incendiary actions" during a pro-Palestinian street protest in New York. The decision was made while Petro was en route to Bogota from New York, according to Colombian media cited by Agence France-Presse. The State Department stated that Petro's behavior at the protest, where he urged soldiers not to obey orders from the Trump administration, was a factor in the visa revocation. "We cannot tolerate actions that undermine our national security and stability," said a spokesperson for the State Department. In an interview with the BBC earlier this week, Petro likened US airstrikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats in the Caribbean Sea to an "act of tyranny." He also shared a video on social media of himself speaking at a large crowd through a megaphone, where he called for nations to contribute soldiers to an army "larger than that of the United States." Petro's translator relayed his remarks, saying, "That is why, from here in New York, I ask all soldiers in the United States Army not to point their rifles at humanity. Disobey Trump's order! Obey the order of humanity!" The decision to revoke Petro's visa has been met with criticism from some quarters. "This is a clear attempt by the US government to silence dissenting voices and undermine international cooperation," said a spokesperson for the Colombian Embassy in Washington. Others, however, have defended the State Department's move. "As a sovereign nation, we have every right to protect our interests and security," said a Republican congressman from Florida. "If President Petro is willing to undermine US authority, then perhaps he shouldn't be allowed to enter the country." The visa revocation has sparked debate about the limits of free speech and the role of international leaders in promoting global stability. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this development will impact relations between the two countries. Background: The US-Colombia relationship has been strained in recent years due to differences over trade, security, and human rights issues. This latest development is likely to further complicate diplomatic efforts between the two nations. Current status: Petro's visa has been revoked, but it remains unclear what specific actions he will face as a result of this decision. The Colombian government has not commented on the matter, but sources close to the president indicate that he will continue to speak out against US policies that he believes are unjust. Next developments: The situation is likely to be closely watched by diplomats and international observers in the coming days. It remains to be seen how this development will impact global relations and whether other countries will follow suit in revoking visas for leaders who speak out against US policies. *Reporting by Bbc.*