Colombia's President Challenges US Claim: Boat Carrying Colombians Was Targeted

Colombia's President Says Boat Struck by US Was Carrying Colombians BOGOTA, Colombia - Colombian President Gustavo Petro on Wednesday disputed the U.S. government's claim that a boat bombed in international waters was carrying "narco-traffickers," saying it was actually a vessel with Colombian citizens on board. The U.S. had confirmed striking at least four vessels in the Caribbean in recent weeks, killing 21 people, and said the attacks were targeting "narco-traffickers." However, the White House has not provided evidence or details about who or what is aboard the boats. Petro's statement came after a post on X by U.S. Senator Adam Schiff, a Democrat, who said he would vote to block strikes against vessels in the Caribbean as some lawmakers sought to challenge the use of armed forces in Congress. "We have information that the boat was Colombian with Colombian citizens inside," Petro said in a statement. "We are concerned about the lack of transparency and accountability from the U.S. government regarding these actions." The U.S. Senate on Wednesday rejected a measure that would have barred President Donald Trump from using military force against the boats. The strikes have attracted condemnation in countries in the region, with many expressing concerns they breach international law. "This is not just about Colombia or the United States," said Maria Rodriguez, a human rights activist in Bogota. "It's about respect for sovereignty and international law." The U.S. government has maintained that its actions are necessary to combat narco-trafficking in the region. "We will continue to take action against those who seek to undermine regional security and stability," said a White House spokesperson. The controversy surrounding the strikes is likely to continue, with some lawmakers calling for greater transparency and accountability from the U.S. government. As the situation unfolds, Petro's statement has added fuel to the debate, highlighting the need for clear communication and cooperation between nations. In related news, the Colombian government has announced plans to hold an emergency meeting with regional leaders to discuss the issue and potential next steps. The meeting is expected to take place in the coming days, as tensions continue to rise over the U.S. strikes in the Caribbean. *Reporting by Bbc.*