Colombian President Gustavo Petro has backed a two-day national strike on May 28–29, urging mass mobilizations after Congress blocked his popular consultation. Labor unions will lead protests amid growing political tensions and institutional deadlock.
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South is the new East: Stories shaping China – Latin America relations
China and Latin America are strengthening ties through infrastructure, education, and cultural exchange. From port construction in Peru to traditional medicine in Argentina, personal stories highlight how deepening cooperation is building bridges across continents.
Colombia’s Petro pivots to Beijing with intent to join Belt and Road
Colombian President Gustavo Petro plans to sign a letter of intent to join China’s Belt and Road Initiative during a May visit to Beijing, signaling a major geopolitical shift that could strain ties with the U.S. and alarm business leaders as trade tariffs loom.
Petro claims ‘Dubai is the new Miami for narcos’ amid Gulf Clan attacks
Colombian President Gustavo Petro defended his security policy amid a surge in violence that has left 27 officers dead. Downplaying fears of collapse, Petro blamed international drug networks and claimed “Dubai is the new Miami for narcos.” Critics warn his “total peace” strategy is faltering as attacks against the police escalate.
Colombia’s Indigenous Minga descend on Bogotá for May Day Protests
More than 16,000 Indigenous protesters have arrived in Bogotá ahead of May Day marches supporting President Petro’s reform agenda. Their occupation of the National University sparked tensions after confrontations with students and reports of machete-armed individuals. Authorities are coordinating security as mass demonstrations are expected across the capital on Thursday.
Ex-Foreign Minister Álvaro Leyva claims Petro has a drug problem
In a respectful, yet unapologetic letter to President Gustavo Petro, Colombia’s former Foreign Minister, Álvaro Leyva Durán expressed his deep disappointment in the current adminstration and blames the leftist leader’s “erratic behaviour” on substance abuse.
Colombia’s Petro delivers offhand remark regarding U.S visa status
Colombia’s Gustavo Petro has once again stirred controversy with the United States after claiming that the Department of State may have revoked his travel visa.
Colombia and U.S to expand Biometric Data Sharing for migration and security
Colombian Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia hosted DHS Secretary Kristi Noem at the San Carlos Palace in Bogotá where an agreement was signed that would expand the sharing of biometric data for law enforcement and migration controls.
Petro’s mockery of Senator Barrera and his horse sparks outrage
Colombian President Gustavo Petro faced backlash for mocking Casanare Senator Alirio Barrera’s grief over his horse’s death. Critics condemned Petro’s remark as cruel and a deflection from his labor reform’s failure, highlighting his tendency to replace debate with personal attacks on social media.
Petro’s Civic Day rallies thousands, but Senate rejects contentious Labor Reform
Thousands marched in Bogotá on Petro’s “Civic Day” to pressure Congress into passing his labor reform, but the Senate rejected the bill. Petro condemned lawmakers, warning of a referendum push as political tensions between his administration and Congress escalate.
Petro mobilizes Civic Day to defy Congress on social reforms
Colombia’s Gustavo Petro has declared March 18 a “Civic Day” to rally support for his social reforms, bypassing Congress. By pressuring workers to march, Petro risks deepening political divides and setting a dangerous precedent of governance through mass mobilization over the due legislative process.
Colombia’s Petro calls for referendum to let “the people decide” reforms
Colombian President Gustavo Petro has called for a national referendum on his unpopular reforms after lawmakers shelved the labor reform in the Senate. Critics claim the move undermines democracy and the autonomy of Congress, with concerns a referendum sets a dangerous precedent for governing by a populist decree.
Defence Minister resigns as ELN violence engulfs Colombia’s Chocó
Colombia faces escalating violence as ELN guerrillas and the Clan del Golfo battle for control in Chocó, displacing thousands and confining over 50,000 residents. Defense Minister Iván Velásquez resigns amid worsening security, leaving vulnerable communities at the mercy of illegal armed groups.
Petro’s cabinet in turmoil as resignations follow Benedetti’s appointment
President Gustavo Petro’s government faces turmoil after key ministers resigned in protest of Armando Benedetti’s appointment as Chief of Staff. Benedetti, implicated in charges of illegal campaign financing, and dubious ties to Venezuela’s Maduro regime, has deepened divisions within Petro’s administration.
As Deportation Flights continue, Colombians face visa suspensions amid dispute
Colombia received its third deportation flight from the U.S. amid a diplomatic standoff between Petro and Trump. With the suspension of travel visas, Petro’s late-night social media postings have fueled concern over his erratic leadership style.
Colombia’s Liberal Party declares independence from Petro’s Government
Former President César Gaviria and leader of the Liberal Party announced the break, citing institutional decline and recent governance debacle, including migrant crisis with President Trump.