President Gustavo Petro, his son, former first lady, and close aide remain on the U.S. sanctions list despite Washington removing 125 others, reflecting serious allegations about drug trafficking support that demand documented governmental responses and carry concrete economic consequences.
Colombian President Gustavo Petro requested Trump's assistance removing OFAC sanctions on himself and family members during a Friday call, claiming Trump promised action, though Treasury Department administrative review ultimately determines removal eligibility.
María Bolívar Maury, a candidate for Congress, was attacked by a gunman on a motorcycle.
The US Treasury sanctioned Colombia's former president, his wife, son, and interior minister in October 2025 under drug-trafficking orders, while a Colombian outlet reported in October 2026 that the FBI may arrive and OFAC could impose additional measures, though no US agency confirmed this claim.
Republican Senator Bernie Moreno, a Trump ally, conditioned Colombian President Gustavo Petro's removal from the Clinton List on his conduct during the next five weeks of government transition, citing ongoing drug production investigations as determining factors.
A US State Department official stated the White House has not requested lifting sanctions against Colombian President Gustavo Petro from the OFAC list, imposed in October 2025 citing cocaine production surges under his administration.
Colombian Minister Armando Benedetti denounces alleged vote buying in Cordoba, President Gustavo Petro calls for investigation.