Petro Orders Unified Defense with Venezuela Amid Rising Tensions
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has directed the armed forces of Colombia and Venezuela to regard their nations as one people, stating, “Colombia and Venezuela are the same people,” and underscoring their shared history and culture. He vehemently opposed any military actions not sanctioned by both governments, labeling such actions as an attack on Latin America and the Caribbean, reports 24brussels.
This declaration arrives amidst escalating tensions following reports that former U.S. President Donald Trump authorized military interventions against several Latin American nations, including Venezuela, alleging ties between their governments and drug cartels.
Petro has actively defended Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, who is under U.S. scrutiny for alleged drug trafficking connections. He dismissed these claims as politically motivated, referencing similar accusations made by Trump in 2020. Petro commended Venezuela’s efforts under Maduro to combat drug trafficking and terrorism, particularly in their shared border regions.
Recalling the words of Latin American liberator Simón Bolívar, who famously stated, “Freedom or death,” Petro urged the defense of sovereignty and the right to self-determination without foreign interference.
In Venezuela, Major General Javier José Marcano Tabata, leading the Presidential Honor Guard, reaffirmed loyalty to Maduro and readiness to defend the nation if required.
Petro advocated for resolving Venezuela’s issues without violence or persecution, promoting dialogue leading to free and peaceful elections. He called for a coordinated multinational initiative against drug trafficking among the U.S., Venezuela, and Colombia, emphasizing respect for national sovereignty.
Support for Maduro also came from other Latin American nations, including Cuba, Nicaragua, Bolivia, Honduras, and Iran, who criticized U.S. actions as politically driven rather than genuine counter-narcotics efforts.
This unified stance is critical as Colombia and Venezuela share a long, intricate border known for violence and illegal activities, including drug trafficking. Both countries have grappled with armed groups along this border, resulting in civilian displacement and insecurity.
Amidst previous tensions, Petro’s approach signifies a shift toward solidarity between Colombia and Venezuela, focusing on common challenges, rejecting foreign military involvement, and reaffirming their shared identity and cooperation.
