Petro Faces U.S. Drug Probe, Denies Ties

0:00On March 23rd, Colombian President Gustavo Petro faces serious scrutiny from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, which has labeled him a priority target in probes over alleged drug trafficking ties. Federal prosecutors in New York are examining claims dating back to 2022, based on informant tips and agency records. Investigators are looking into possible links between Petro and Mexico's Sena Loa Cartel, as well as schemes tied to his total peace initiative that, might a favor campaign backers in the trade. Other angles include using official channels to move cocaine and fentanyl through Colombian ports, and even bribe offers at a major jail to block, extraditions. Petro has flatly rejected all accusations, insisting no drug money touched his campaign, and pointing fingers at Colombia's political opponents. His embassy in Washington dismissed the reports as unverified rumors with no solid ground, while U.S. officials state silent on details. Separate inquiries have targeted Petro's son for taking illegal funds from a trafficker

1:03and his brother, for secret deals with inmates. Colombia's politics have long wrestled with drug influence, from past cartel donations to politicians to rebel groups with murky funding histories. For now, these early states' cases show no charges against Petro himself, leaving questions about how far the U.S. push will go amid shifting diplomatic ties. I'm Corey with The Story. That's your global news update, AI-powered and always on.