Colombian President Gustavo Petro has once again stirred controversy by defending Nicolás Maduro and dismissing the existence of the so-called "Cartel of the Suns," which the United States has labeled as a terrorist organization allegedly led by the Venezuelan president himself. Petro took to social media platform X, declaring, "The Cartel of the Suns does not exist; it is a fictional excuse used by the far-right to topple non-compliant governments." He accused the international right-wing of fabricating charges to justify the overthrow of inconvenient regimes.
Petro further argued that the cocaine trafficking through Venezuela is actually controlled by "narcotrafficking boards" with leaders residing in Europe and the Middle East, rather than by Venezuelan military figures. This public support for Maduro comes at a particularly sensitive time, as the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump doubled the reward for information leading to Maduro's capture, raising it to $50 million, and increased pressure on Caracas with U.S. warships positioned off the Venezuelan coast.
Petro's remarks prompted swift reactions from the United States. Florida Republican Congressman Carlos Giménez stated that the Colombian leader "has just signed his own sentence," warning that the U.S. Congress will not take lightly a statement that he believes amounts to aiding a cartel accused of narcoterrorism. "On the contrary, it is extremely serious," Giménez wrote, highlighting the growing tension between Bogotá and Washington, particularly as the White House has hardened its stance against the Chavismo and its regional allies.
Earlier this month, Petro also voiced his support for Latin American judicial sovereignty and referenced the Venezuelan president in a tweet. The Colombian head of state criticized what he perceives as "undue pressures" from U.S. officials on Colombia and decried attempts to manipulate justice in the region. "Justice must be independent of government, from Alaska to Patagonia. I do not agree with shedding Latin American blood by imposition," Petro asserted, adding that Maduro has assisted Colombia in the fight against drug trafficking along their shared border.
Petro's statements coincide with a new U.S. naval deployment in the Caribbean, where destroyers and amphibious ships are nearing Venezuela to bolster anti-drug operations. In response, Maduro has mobilized millions of militia members within Venezuela, accusing Washington of preparing for an intervention.
FAQs on the Cartel of the Suns and Petro's Remarks
What is the "Cartel of the Suns"?
The "Cartel of the Suns" is an alleged Venezuelan drug trafficking organization reportedly involving high-ranking military officials, which the U.S. has designated as a terrorist group.
Why does Gustavo Petro deny the existence of the Cartel of the Suns?
Gustavo Petro claims that the Cartel of the Suns is a fictional creation by the far-right to undermine governments that do not comply with their agenda.
How has the U.S. responded to Petro's statements?
The U.S. has expressed significant concern, with Congressman Carlos Giménez warning of the serious implications of Petro's remarks, potentially impacting U.S.-Colombia relations.