Colombian President Gustavo Petro is being scrutinised in criminal investigations by two US federal prosecutors’ offices, according to a source familiar with the matter.
The probes, being handled by US Attorney’s offices in Manhattan and Brooklyn, New York, are focused on narco terrorism and drug trafficking, but Petro is not the central target.
“There are not ongoing investigations that are squarely focused on him,” the source said.
The investigations reportedly involve prosecutors specialising in international narcotics trafficking, alongside agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration and Homeland Security Investigations.
According to reports, investigators are examining Petro’s alleged meetings with drug traffickers and whether his presidential campaign received donations linked to such networks.
The probes remain in early stages, and it is unclear whether they will lead to any formal charges.
Colombia’s presidency has not responded to requests for comment, while US prosecutors have declined to comment publicly on the matter.
The development comes amid strained relations between Petro and US President Donald Trump, who previously accused the Colombian leader of enabling cocaine trafficking.
Petro rejected the claims, pointing instead to long standing cooperation between both countries and arguing that US demand fuels the global drug trade.
Despite tensions, both leaders appeared to ease relations during a February meeting at the White House, where Trump described Petro as “terrific,” while Petro urged the US to focus on dismantling major drug kingpins.
The investigations now add a new layer of complexity to diplomatic ties between Washington and Bogotá, as authorities continue to examine links between political figures and international drug networks.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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