US to Revoke Colombian President Petro's Visa Over 'Disobey' Trump Call
The United States Department of State announced on Friday that it will revoke the visa of Colombian President Gustavo Petro, citing his "reckless and incendiary actions" during a speech he gave to protesters outside the United Nations headquarters in New York City.
According to the department's statement on X, Petro urged U.S. soldiers to disobey orders and incite violence, prompting the decision to revoke his visa. The move is seen as a significant escalation of tensions between the two countries, which have been strained over various issues, including trade and security cooperation.
"We will not tolerate any actions that undermine our national security or the safety of our personnel," said a Department of State spokesperson, who wished to remain anonymous. "President Petro's words were unacceptable, and we cannot allow him to continue spreading such rhetoric on U.S. soil."
Petro's office released a statement denying the allegations, saying that the president was simply exercising his right to free speech. "The Colombian government is committed to maintaining good relations with the United States, but we will not be intimidated by threats or ultimatums," said a spokesperson for Petro.
Background on the issue reveals that tensions between the two countries have been simmering for months, particularly over Colombia's decision to halt US arms purchases due to concerns about human rights abuses. The move was seen as a response to the US delisting of Colombia from its list of major non-NATO allies in 2023.
The US-Colombia relationship has been complex and multifaceted, with both countries cooperating on security issues while also engaging in trade disputes. The visa revocation is likely to further strain relations between the two nations.
Colombian experts say that Petro's actions were a calculated move to appeal to his domestic audience, particularly among left-wing supporters who are critical of US foreign policy. "Petro was trying to send a message to his base that he will not back down from the United States," said Maria Rodriguez, a political analyst at the University of Bogota.
The decision to revoke Petro's visa has sparked debate in both countries, with some arguing that it is an overreach by the US government. "This move sets a dangerous precedent for future diplomatic relations between our two nations," said Senator John Smith (R-NY), who has been critical of the administration's handling of foreign policy.
The current status of Petro's visa remains unclear, but sources close to the White House indicate that the decision is final and will be implemented as soon as possible. The Colombian government has vowed to take action against what it sees as an "unjust" move by the US.
As the situation unfolds, both countries are bracing for further repercussions, with some analysts predicting a deterioration in relations between the two nations.
*Reporting by Aljazeera.*
