Concerns Raised Over Substance Abuse in Colombian Government

The U.S. House Approvals Committee on Representation recently expressed worries regarding increased reports of substance abuse within the Colombian government, highlighting issues “at the highest level.”

Congressman Diaz-Balart noted that the estimated 50% cut in U.S. funding to Colombia for fiscal year 2026—around $209 million—was primarily attributed to “harmful policies, volatile behavior, and malignant relationships” associated with President Gustavo Petro’s far-left administration.

Colombia, which has a long-standing history as one of South America’s oldest allies, established diplomatic ties with the U.S. back in 1822. However, under Petro, the first leftist president of Colombia and a former member of the Marxist M19 group, relations with the United States have become strained, especially following Donald Trump’s inauguration in 2017.

Petro has led efforts that some find confusing, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio accused him of creating instability. In response, Petro allegedly reached out to Trump in a letter attempting to alleviate tensions.

During the committee session, Diaz-Balart presented a report detailing the strong connections between the U.S. and Colombian military and police, raising alarms about the Petro administration’s erratic behavior.

The committee outlined the following concerns:

There has been a notable rise in reports of substance abuse in Colombia, including at high governmental levels. The Secretary of State has been directed to consult with the Budget Committee within the next 90 days to explore potential demand reduction initiatives in Colombia.

Petro’s former foreign minister, Alvaro Leiva, also accused him in a letter of experiencing drug-related issues based on insights from his time in office. Leiva has even urged Petro to consider stepping down from the presidency due to these allegations, although the specific substance in question was not mentioned.

In turn, Petro pushed back against Leiva’s claims, suggesting a conspiracy involving him and Diaz-Balart. The latter advised Petro to seek expert guidance regarding addiction issues.

Petro maintains a controversial stance on cocaine policies, and the administration’s approach has led to record levels of cocaine production in Colombia. Home Minister Armando Benedetti, known for his contentious views, has publicly acknowledged his struggles with addiction. As of now, investigations by Colombia’s House of Representatives into drug allegations related to Petro continue.

Benedetti also dismissed concerns raised by the House Committee, stating that the U.S. itself struggles with drug issues, saying, “It’s a pot calling the kettle black.” He highlighted that the U.S. is a significant market for drug trafficking and pointed out the high rates of cocaine consumption there.

He didn’t accuse Trump or his cabinet directly of drug use but noted the hypocrisy of the claims. The House Committee has also voiced concerns about the deteriorating security landscape and escalating political instability in Colombia, following recent assassination attempts on conservative political figures.

Diaz-Balart emphasized that the issues of politicization raise serious alarm bells about judicial independence and the rule of law in Colombia. He noted that the current administration has failed to utilize U.S. support effectively, resulting in a substantial cut to non-military assistance for Colombia.

Petro is known for making controversial statements, including criticizing Trump’s immigration policies and suggesting relocating the Statue of Liberty to Colombia. This week, he indicated his desire to see a replica of the statue built if he is not allowed to move the original.

Lawmakers have expressed concern regarding Petro’s relationships with terrorist organizations and authoritarian governments, suggesting that these actions could undermine the U.S.-Colombian partnership.