Colombian President Alleges U.S. Strike Targeted Colombian Vessel; White House Denies Claim

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has alleged that the most recent U.S. military strike in the Caribbean targeted a Colombian vessel carrying Colombian citizens. In a statement on social media platform X, Petro stated, "Indications show that the last boat bombed was Colombian with Colombian citizens inside it."

The U.S. military has conducted at least four strikes on vessels in the Caribbean since early September, claiming these operations targeted drug-trafficking activities. The latest strike, announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on October 3, reportedly killed four individuals aboard a boat off the coast of Venezuela.

The White House has dismissed Petro's allegations as "baseless and reprehensible," emphasizing that Colombia remains an essential strategic partner despite policy differences.

In the U.S. Senate, a measure introduced by Democratic Senators Adam Schiff and Tim Kaine aimed at requiring President Donald Trump to seek congressional approval for such military actions was narrowly defeated in a 48-51 vote. Senator John Fetterman was the only Democrat to vote against the resolution, while Republican Senators Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski supported it.

Venezuelan Defense Minister Vladimir Padrino has also criticized the U.S. strikes, warning of potential escalation and accusing the U.S. of seeking regime change in Venezuela.