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Colombia · Drug Trafficking · Petro · US Investigation
US federal prosecutors in New York are investigating Colombian President Gustavo Petro for alleged ties to drug traffickers, specifically regarding claims his representatives solicited bribes to block extradition to the US, with inquiries currently in early stages and no charges yet filed.
Prosecutors in Brooklyn and Manhattan have questioned drug traffickers about ties to Petro and allegations of bribe solicitation at La Picota jail. Petro consistently denies drug trafficking allegations, maintaining his administration targets major cartels while favoring a social-based approach for coca farmers.
Former President Trump previously labeled Petro an "illegal drug leader" and sanctioned him in late 2025, later revoking his visa and imposing tariffs, though relations have recently improved. Colombian authorities have investigated Petro's family for years.
His son, Nicolás Petro, was charged in 2023 with soliciting illegal campaign contributions from a convicted drug trafficker, which he denies funded his father's campaign. His brother, Juan Fernando Petro, is implicated in secret negotiations with imprisoned drug traffickers to shield them from extradition.
Colombian politics has a history of drug money influence, including Pablo Escobar's election to Congress in the 1980s and Cali cartel donations to Ernesto Samper's campaign. Petro's former rebel group, the 19th of April Movement, was suspected of taking money from Escobar's Medellin cartels.
The inquiries are in early stages, and it is unclear if charges will result. The White House has no role in these investigations.
