Petro Says He Spoke With Trump About Anti-Drug Fight, Sanctions; Calls Conversation 'Friendly'

Colombian President Gustavo Petro reported a "friendly" phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump, discussing the South American nation's anti-narcotics efforts and sanctions imposed on Petro. This marks their fourth conversation, which Petro described as amicable on the social platform X. Petro, Colombia's first leftist president, affirmed that his administration has met the agreed-upon goal of eradicating 30,000 hectares of coca leaf, the primary ingredient for cocaine, in a country that is the world's largest producer of the drug. He aims to increase this figure to 41,000 hectares by the end of 2026. The conversation also touched upon Trump's endorsement of Abelardo de la Espriella, Petro's right-wing successor, and Petro's surprise that Trump was unaware of his non-support for de la Espriella and his family's continued presence on the U.S. Treasury's Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons List (OFAC). Petro stated that Trump promised to address the sanctions issue. Trump had previously placed Petro on this sanctions list, typically reserved for drug traffickers, terrorists, and dictators, citing insufficient efforts to curb drug trafficking. These restrictions hinder access to U.S. bank accounts, block assets in the United States, and limit dealings with American companies. Additionally, Washington had decertified Colombia as an ally in the fight against drugs in 2025. Petro also appealed to Trump for help in preventing hatred from escalating into violence in Colombia, referencing instigators and financiers. The election of de la Espriella was notably close, with a margin of less than 1% over his leftist opponent.