Petro Blasts US "Decertification" and Global Crises at UN, Calls for Revolution

Petro Denounces US "Decertification" at UN, Warns of Climate Collapse

Colombian President Gustavo Petro delivered a forceful speech at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York, criticizing the international system and denouncing the United States' "decertification" of his government for its drug policy. He also warned of the looming climate collapse and the urgent need for global action.

Criticism of US Drug Policy and "Decertification"

Petro strongly questioned the legitimacy of the "decertification" mechanism, calling it a tool of political pressure and a violation of the sovereignty of Latin American countries. He argued that the war on drugs has disproportionately affected the poor while protecting the economic interests of the global north. Petro highlighted what he sees as geopolitical biases in classifying substances as dangerous, pointing to the exclusion of alcohol despite its harmful effects.

He stated, "¿Con qué derecho un presidente extranjero descertifica a otro elegido por su pueblo?", pointing out what he perceived as an overstep of democratic bounds. His criticism of the US action was a central theme of his address.

Linking Global Crises: Drugs, War, and Climate

Petro connected the war on drugs to other global crises, stating, "the same power that launches bombs in Gaza is the one that shoots missiles in Latin America." He argued that drug policies, the conflict in Gaza, forced migration, and the climate crisis share a common origin: the greed of economic and military powers that prioritize profit over human lives. This interconnectedness underscores Petro's holistic view of global challenges.

Amazonia and the Call for Climate Action

The Colombian president issued a dire warning about the future of the Amazon rainforest, stating it's approaching a point of no return. He rejected the concept of "green capitalism" and called for global regulation of fossil fuels. Petro emphasized the urgency of climate action, declaring, "We have ten years to change the world; there is no other option than a revolution of the peoples in Europe, in the United States, in Latin America, in Africa and in the Arab world."

Colombia's Stance on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

Petro is one of the most outspoken heads of state to condemn the actions of Israel in the Palestinian Territories. Colombia has ended relations with the government of Benjamin Netanyahu due to what it sees as a 'genocide' in Gaza. Petro has also ordered the cessation of Colombian coal exports to Israel and is championing an armed peace force for Palestine.

Foreign Minister Rosa Villavicencio has stated that President Petro will present his proposal for a peace force for Palestine before the United Nations. The force is intended as a means to prevent violence against the Palestinian people and encourage a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Previous UN Addresses and Colombia's Global Role

In his previous addresses to the UN, Petro has consistently challenged the status quo, criticizing the war on drugs and calling for a new approach to climate change. This year, despite facing criticism and the US's "decertification", Petro reaffirmed his stance, positioning Colombia as a leader in defending the Amazon and advocating for a new international order. The Colombian delegation also intends to meet with members of The Hague group, and further call for an end to the conflict.