Colombia condemns US strikes on boats as illegal, warns Trump of rising regional tensions

BOGOTÁ, Colombia (AA) – Colombian President Gustavo Petro has condemned recent US military strikes on boats in international waters, calling them unlawful and counterproductive in the fight against drug trafficking.

“The operations are easy but ineffective,” Petro told CBS News, criticizing what he described as Washington’s disregard for international law. He said some of those killed in the attacks were innocent civilians.

The Trump administration has claimed responsibility for at least 10 strikes in the past two months, including two off Colombia’s Pacific coast this week.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the most recent “lethal kinetic strike” targeted a vessel allegedly operated by the Tren de Aragua gang, killing six people described as “narco-terrorists.”

President Trump defended the actions as “lawful efforts” to dismantle drug trafficking networks, rejecting Bogotá’s accusations. “All six terrorists were killed and no US forces were harmed,” Hegseth said.

Petro, however, accused Washington of escalating tensions instead of addressing root causes.

“Killing the business’ workers is easy,” he said. “But if you want to be effective, you have to capture the bosses of the business.”

Trump recently lashed out at Petro, calling him “a lousy leader” and labeling Colombia “a drug den,” alleging the country is producing cocaine “at levels we’ve never seen before.”

Petro dismissed the remarks, saying, “They have insulted me a lot, but all I can do is be frank.”

Warning against further escalation, Petro said that any US military operation crossing into Colombian territory would be a “grave provocation.” “I was an insurgent myself,” he added.

“We should talk instead.”

The US Drug Enforcement Administration estimates that about 90% of the cocaine entering the United States originates from Colombia. Despite tensions, Petro said his country can sustain itself even without US aid or trade benefits.