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2mo ago

U.S. and Colombia Recall Envoys Over Coup Allegations

Leaked recordings triggered a formal investigation into an alleged plot to overthrow President Petro that has upended bilateral relations.

FILE - The Colombian and U.S. flags decorate the table as U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin meets with Colombian Defense Minister Ivan Velasquez at the Pentagon, Nov. 29, 2022, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon, File)
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The diplomatic spat came on the heels of the resignation of Colombia's foreign minister -- the latest top-ranking official to exit the government of President Gustavo Petro, pictured here

Overview

  • The U.S. recalled Chargé d’Affaires John T. McNamara for urgent consultations, citing “baseless and reprehensible statements” from senior Colombian officials.
  • President Gustavo Petro responded by calling home Ambassador Daniel García Peña to review progress on the bilateral agenda.
  • Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia resigned after a dispute with Petro over a passport contract, becoming the latest senior official to exit his administration.
  • Colombia’s Attorney General opened an investigation following El País’s publication of secret audio in which ex-foreign minister Álvaro Leyva sought U.S. support for a coup against Petro.
  • The State Department has warned of further measures to signal deep concern as migration, trade and security disputes continue to strain ties.