U.S. revokes Colombian president’s visa over U.N. protest remarks

NEW YORK – The United States has revoked the visa of Colombian President Gustavo Petro following controversial remarks made during a protest in New York City. Petro, who was in the U.S. to attend the United Nations General Assembly, publicly urged American soldiers to disobey President Donald Trump’s orders regarding the conflict in Gaza.

The U.S. State Department described Petro’s comments as “reckless and incendiary,” citing concerns over diplomatic protocol and national security. The visa revocation marks a rare move against a sitting head of state attending official UN functions.

In response, President Petro stated, “I don’t care,” and noted that his European citizenship allows him to enter the U.S. under the ESTA visa waiver program. He also accused the U.S. government of violating international norms that protect the rights of world leaders participating in UN events.

This development adds to growing tensions between the two countries. Recent disagreements over deportation policies, anti-narcotics cooperation, and foreign policy criticism have strained U.S.-Colombia relations.

As of now, Petro remains defiant, and Colombian officials have not announced any formal diplomatic retaliation.