Colombian President Petro stated that no deaths should occur when intercepting speedboats suspected of drug smuggling, emphasizing a history of collaboration with U.S. agencies. He believes the use of more force than a pistol would violate the principle of proportionality. This comes amidst U.S. strikes in international waters, mainly targeting Venezuela, with questions raised by Democratic lawmakers and UN experts regarding their legality. Petro accused the Trump administration of humiliation and suggested his nation would not be subjugated, indicating escalating tensions and friction between the two countries.
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The US has designated Colombia as a country that has “demonstrably failed” to meet its obligations to control drug trafficking, citing record cocaine production under President Gustavo Petro’s administration. Colombia’s government responded by announcing it would stop purchasing weapons from the US. The US attributed the surge to Petro’s policies, specifically peace talks with armed groups involved in drug trafficking, despite Petro’s claims that the increases occurred during the previous administration. While the US has not cut off aid, it has put pressure on the Colombian government to take more action, opening the possibility for recertification if aggressive steps are taken.
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Former Colombian President Álvaro Uribe has been sentenced to 12 years of house arrest for witness tampering and bribery, following a trial that presented evidence of his attempts to influence witnesses. The sentence, which Uribe has vowed to appeal, also includes an eight-year ban from holding public office and a significant fine. Judge Sandra Heredia cited the potential for Uribe to flee the country as the reason for the house arrest ruling. This historic case stems from allegations of Uribe’s ties to paramilitary groups and a libel suit that turned into an investigation against him.
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In a recent attack in northwest Colombia, an ELN guerilla group used a donkey laden with explosives, resulting in the death of a soldier and injury of two others. The attack occurred in the Antioquia department, prompting criticism of the government’s “total peace” strategy. This incident further highlights the ongoing violence and the breakdown of peace talks with the ELN, which were suspended in January after the group was linked to over a hundred deaths. Despite the government’s efforts for peace, fueled by drug cartels, the ELN has intensified attacks, marking a concerning escalation in Colombia’s security situation.
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According to the article, the sexcam industry in Colombia is booming, with studios often recruiting underage girls to stream sexually explicit content. Many of these young models, motivated by financial hardship, are lured by the promise of easy money but often face exploitation. Studios reportedly circumvent age verification protocols by using recycled accounts or providing fake IDs. Despite platform efforts to prevent underage participation, abuse and coercion persist, with some models pressured into performing acts they are uncomfortable with and receiving minimal pay.
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Senator Miguel Uribe Turbay, a potential 2026 presidential candidate, was shot and wounded at a Bogota campaign rally. The attack, which injured two others, prompted a strong condemnation from Colombian President Gustavo Petro and the U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio. A minor was arrested, and a government reward offered for the remaining perpetrators. International leaders expressed solidarity, highlighting the attack’s threat to Colombian democracy.
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Colombian Senator Miguel Uribe, a potential 2024 presidential candidate, is in critical but stable condition after being shot twice during a campaign event in Bogota. A 15-year-old carrying a Glock pistol was apprehended by police. The attack drew widespread condemnation from Colombian officials, including President Gustavo Petro, as well as international figures, including former presidents and the US Secretary of State. Uribe, from a prominent political family with a history of violence, is a member of the center-right Democratic Center party.
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John Q. Hosedrinker