Colombia Accuses US of Sovereignty Breach in Recent Strike

Colombia’s President Gustavo Petro has formally accused the United States of infringing upon his country’s sovereignty. The controversy erupted following a recent US military strike that resulted in the death of a fisherman named Alejandro Carranza.

Details of the Incident

President Petro stated that Carranza had no connections to drug trafficking. He was fishing in the Caribbean when the US forces attacked his boat. Petro claimed that the boat was adrift and sending a distress signal due to engine trouble.

Colombian Response

Petro expressed his outrage in a statement on X, calling the US government’s actions a “murder” and a violation of Colombian territorial waters. “We await explanations from the US government,” he said, emphasizing the need for accountability.

US Military Actions

The US military confirmed a strike on a vessel described by President Trump as a “drug-carrying submarine.” This operation, conducted on Thursday, was part of a broader anti-drug initiative targeting narco-traffickers.

• Attacked vessel reportedly contained illegal narcotics, primarily Fentanyl.
• Four individuals were aboard the vessel, with two reported dead and two survivors rescued.

Impact on Survivors

The two survivors from the attack have been taken into custody following their rescue. President Trump announced that they would be repatriated to their home countries, which include Ecuador and Colombia. Petro confirmed that the Colombian national will face prosecution under domestic laws.

Context of US Strikes

This incident marks the sixth US attack on alleged narcotics vessels off the coast of Venezuela, according to reports. The Trump administration claims that these strikes have resulted in the deaths of 27 individuals.

Concerns Over Legality

The aggressive US strategy has raised alarm among experts who question the legality and morality of such extrajudicial killings. The Colombian government has signaled its concern over these operations and their implications for national sovereignty and civilian safety.

As tensions rise, both countries must navigate the complex landscape of drug trafficking and international law, balancing security efforts with respect for sovereignty.