Colombian President Petro Calls for Criminal Proceedings Against Trump Over Caribbean Strikes

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has called for a “criminal process” against U.S. President Donald Trump, accusing him of ordering military strikes in the Caribbean that killed unarmed civilians. Petro made the remarks during the United Nations General Assembly, highlighting concerns over civilian casualties from U.S. operations targeting alleged drug trafficking vessels off the Venezuelan coast.

Petro described the victims as “poor young people” and accused Washington of carrying out extrajudicial killings. He referenced statements by UN human rights experts who have condemned the strikes as unlawful executions, arguing that such military actions violate international law.

Trump, speaking earlier at the same UN session, defended the operations as part of an aggressive anti-drug campaign. He vowed to “obliterate” drug traffickers and announced the deployment of eight warships and a submarine to the southern Caribbean—a show of force described by analysts as the largest U.S. military buildup in the region in years.

The strikes have intensified tensions in Venezuela. President Nicolás Maduro accused the U.S. of attempting regime change, prompting thousands of Venezuelans to join civilian militias to defend their country. The escalating situation has raised concerns about regional stability, with Petro stressing that military interventions must respect civilian safety and adhere to international law.

Petro’s stance represents a notable shift in Colombia-U.S. relations. While the two countries have historically collaborated on anti-narcotics operations, the Colombian president’s demand for legal accountability highlights growing unease over the human cost of U.S. military actions in the Caribbean.

The call for a criminal process against a sitting U.S. president is largely symbolic but underscores Colombia’s determination to hold external actors accountable for actions perceived as violating international norms. Petro concluded by urging the international community to ensure that military operations prioritize civilian protection and comply with legal and humanitarian standards.