Background on Key Figures and Context
Colombia’s Defense Minister, Pedro Sánchez, has issued a stern warning that if the United States withdraws its anti-drug certification from Colombia, it would be a victory for drug traffickers and a loss for nations. This statement comes at a critical time when the U.S., under President Donald Trump, is intensifying pressure on Latin American countries to curb the drug flow into the U.S.
Who is Pedro Sánchez?
Pedro Sánchez is the current Minister of Defense of Colombia, appointed in 2022. A retired air force general, Sánchez is at the forefront of Colombia’s ongoing struggle against drug trafficking and armed groups. His role is crucial as Colombia faces its worst security crisis in a decade, marked by record levels of coca cultivation, numerous attacks, and the assassination of an opposition senator aspiring to presidency.
Who is Gustavo Petro?
Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s left-wing president, has been a vocal critic of Trump’s policies. His administration seeks to shift the anti-drug paradigm, deeming it ineffective and focusing on addressing social causes that fuel conflict and drug trafficking. This stance has led to tensions with Trump, including Petro’s criticism of U.S. military deployment in the Caribbean to combat drug trafficking, a move also rejected by Venezuela.
The Stakes of the US Decision
By September 15, the Trump administration must decide whether to continue providing substantial military support to Colombia’s forces in their fight against drug cartels and guerrillas financed by cocaine trade.
Colombia’s Security Crisis
Colombia is currently experiencing its most severe security crisis in a decade, with multiple attacks, record-breaking coca cultivation, and the tragic assassination of an opposition senator who aspired to presidency. These challenges coincide with heightened U.S. pressure on Latin American countries to curb drug flows.
“Quimioterapia” – The Fight Against Drug Trafficking
During a visit to Putumayo, a volatile department bordering Ecuador, Minister Sánchez emphasized Colombia’s unwavering commitment to combating drug trafficking. He stated, “Colombia is perhaps one of the countries that most forcefully and comprehensively attacks narcotráfico… perhaps the country that most ‘neutralizes’ it.”
Security Deterioration and Violent Acts
Experts point to a decline in Colombia’s security due to President Petro’s decisions regarding the actions of armed forces and his policy of negotiating peace with certain groups. Violent acts, such as an attempted arson of two soldiers during a drug-related operation, are attributed to public force persecution and anti-drug operations by Sánchez.
“Agua Tibia” – The Need for Enhanced Security Measures
Sánchez acknowledged the increasing sophistication and lethality of attacks against public forces and civilians by drug traffickers using drones. Although Colombia hasn’t yet deployed combat drones against illegal armed groups, the government has improved systems to counter drone-launched artisanal explosives from commercial drones.
- Current Situation: In the past month and a half, 802 attacks using drones have been thwarted.
- Need for More Resources: The public force requires increased budget allocation to strengthen armament, aeronaves, and intelligence equipment.
- Current Capabilities: Sánchez emphasized, “If we want security, we need to invest in security. Don’t ask us to fight cancer with lukewarm water.”
- Armed Groups: Colombia currently hosts approximately 22,000 guerrillas and narcotraficantes in arms, according to military intelligence estimates.
- Military Offensive:
The government’s peace project with armed groups has not diminished the military offensive, as “the order is to employ all force” against them.
