"US Bombs 'Narco-Boats', Killing Colombian Civilians, Claims President Petro"

US Accused of Killing Colombians in Aerial Attacks on Suspected Narco-Boats Colombian President Gustavo Petro has accused the US military of killing Colombian citizens during recent aerial attacks on alleged "narco-boats" in the Caribbean Sea. The allegations have sparked concerns about the impact on civilians caught in the crossfire. According to Petro, there are indications that one of the targeted boats was Colombian and had Colombians onboard. In a statement on his official X account, Petro wrote: "A new theatre of war has opened up: the Caribbean." He demanded that the US release the names of the victims, but so far, no further evidence or details have been provided. The US has carried out at least four deadly strikes since September, resulting in 21 reported deaths. The attacks have raised questions about the effectiveness and accountability of the US military's efforts to combat narco-trafficking in the region. According to a report by the Colombian government, the targeted boats were allegedly involved in cocaine trafficking. The incident has strained relations between Colombia and the US, with Petro accusing Washington of "killing Colombians" in the attacks. The US has not publicly commented on the allegations, but sources close to the White House have confirmed that they are reviewing the matter. Experts say the situation highlights the complexities of combating narco-trafficking in the region. "The Caribbean is a major transit point for cocaine trafficking, and the US military's efforts to combat it are often hampered by the lack of clear intelligence on the targets," said Dr. Maria Rodriguez, a security expert at the University of Bogota. Petro's accusations have sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability from the US military in its operations in the region. "The Colombian government has a right to know who was killed and why," said Senator Juan Carlos Henao, a member of Petro's coalition. "We demand that the US provide clear answers on this matter." As the situation continues to unfold, it remains unclear what steps will be taken next by either country. However, one thing is certain: the incident has opened up a new front in the war on narco-trafficking, with civilians caught in the crossfire. Background: The Caribbean Sea has become a major battleground in the war on narco-trafficking, with the US military conducting aerial attacks on suspected "narco-boats" in recent months. The attacks have resulted in significant losses for the traffickers, but also raise concerns about the impact on civilians caught in the crossfire. According to estimates by the Colombian government, at least 21 people have been killed in the attacks since September. The victims include both Colombians and foreigners, with some reports suggesting that they were innocent fishermen or passengers on the targeted boats. The US military has maintained that its operations are aimed at disrupting narco-trafficking networks and bringing those responsible to justice. However, critics argue that the lack of clear intelligence on the targets and the use of aerial attacks have resulted in unintended consequences for civilians. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the US military will respond to Petro's allegations and what steps will be taken next to address the complex issue of narco-trafficking in the region. This story was compiled from reports by The Guardian and The Guardian.