US to Revoke Visa of Colombian President Gustavo Petro Over “Incendiary Remarks”

The United States has announced plans to revoke the visa of Colombian President Gustavo Petro following controversial comments he made during a pro-Palestinian protest in New York City. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

US State Department Confirms Action

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the US Department of State accused Petro of making inflammatory remarks directed at American soldiers.

The statement read:

“Earlier today, Colombian president @petrogustavo stood on a NYC street and urged U.S. soldiers to disobey orders and incite violence. We will revoke Petro’s visa due to his reckless and incendiary actions.”

Petro’s Controversial Statement

While addressing protesters outside the United Nations headquarters, Petro reportedly urged US troops not to follow directives that go against humanity.

“I ask all the soldiers of the US army not to point their guns at humanity. Disobey the orders of Trump. Obey the orders of humanity,” Petro declared.

His comments immediately drew backlash from US officials, who viewed the remarks as an attempt to undermine military discipline and incite unrest.

Historical Context

This is not the first time a Colombian leader has faced US visa revocation. In 1996, former Colombian president Ernesto Samper had his visa withdrawn after allegations surfaced that his presidential campaign was financed by the Cali Cartel.

Mixed Reactions Online

The decision has sparked heated debates globally, with many divided over whether the US move was justified.

• Babatunde Owa wrote: “In his speech in the USA, he appealed to US soldiers to disobey their president’s orders. He was looking for trouble.”

• Kange Andrew said: “Donald Trump is the only president who knows how to deal with leaders whose motions support terror activities.”

• Nuraieyn argued: “They will lie to you about democracy and freedom of speech just to steal your lands.”

• Tyson countered: “Soldiers by law are supposed to disobey unlawful orders anyway. The President of Colombia was simply reiterating US law.”

What Next?

The diplomatic fallout between Washington and Bogotá is expected to deepen, with analysts warning that this latest clash could strain relations between the two nations.