Colombia suspends intelligence sharing with US – Reuters

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has instructed national security forces to temporarily halt the sharing of intelligence information with US agencies, amid rising tensions following American airstrikes on vessels in the Caribbean Sea, which Colombia says violated the rights of residents.

Counter-narcotics and human rights

In a post on X, Petro wrote that "the fight against drugs must be subordinated to the human rights of the peoples of the Caribbean," referring to the long-standing cooperation between Colombia and the United States in combating drug trafficking.

The suspension of intelligence sharing reflects the government’s intention to balance security priorities with the protection of civil rights.

Context and international reaction

Petro’s move is seen as a warning to Washington to consider humanitarian implications when conducting military operations in the region.

Analysts note that while the suspension may temporarily reduce the effectiveness of joint counter-narcotics operations, it underscores Colombia’s willingness to defend the rights and interests of its own citizens.

The decision follows a similar step by the United Kingdom, which also suspended the transfer of intelligence to the US on suspected drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean, citing reluctance to be involved in possible strikes against them.

Meanwhile, the US recently announced the easing of sanctions and export controls on Syria, explaining that the move aims to support "a stable, unified, and peaceful Syria" while continuing to review the country’s designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.