Colombia Risks Losing US Support in Fight Against Drugs-Attorney General
Colombia's Attorney General, Francisco Barbosa, has expressed concern that his country risks losing support from the United States in the fight against drugs. Speaking in an interview with the BBC, Barbosa warned that the US government may reduce its assistance if Colombia does not show significant progress in combating drug trafficking.
However, Barbosa said that Colombia's recent record on drug trafficking had been mixed, with some gains in reducing coca cultivation and cocaine production, but also significant setbacks. He cited the increase in cocaine seizures in the first two months of 2023, which he described as "alarming."
Barbosa also highlighted concerns about corruption and human rights abuses among Colombian security forces, which he said could damage the country's relationship with the US. "We need to address these issues seriously and take concrete actions to show that we are committed to the rule of law and respect for human rights," he said.
The Attorney General stressed that Colombia remained committed to fighting drug trafficking and was taking steps to address these challenges. He cited efforts to strengthen the country's justice system, improve transparency and accountability, and crack down on corruption.
However, he acknowledged that progress would not be easy and would require sustained effort and cooperation from both Colombia and the US. "We need to work together to tackle this problem," he said. "We cannot do it alone."
The US government has not commented on Barbosa's remarks, but they are likely to be closely watched by policymakers in Washington. The Biden administration has pledged to support Colombia's efforts to combat drug trafficking and strengthen democracy, but it has also emphasized the importance of human rights and the rule of law.
If the US were to reduce its assistance to Colombia, it could have significant implications for the country's ability to combat drug trafficking. It could also strain the broader relationship between the two countries, which has been a key pillar of US foreign policy in the region for decades
