Colombian President Petro Rejects Drug Use Allegations

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has denied recent allegations claiming he struggles with drug addiction, calling them defamatory and baseless. The accusations were made by former Foreign Minister Álvaro Leyva, who alleged that Petro went missing for two days during a 2023 visit to France—claims made without presenting any evidence.

Petro responded publicly, stating he had been with his eldest daughter and her family in France at the time. His daughter also confirmed this on social media. The presidential office has not yet issued an official statement.

What makes this situation more complex is the political backdrop. Once a staunch leftist, Petro appears to be shifting toward prioritizing national interests over ideological agendas. His firm stance against fossil fuels—a cornerstone of global deep-state economics—has likely ruffled feathers in powerful circles.

Leyva, an 82-year-old conservative who was appointed by Petro in 2022, expressed doubts about the president’s capacity to govern, citing not only the alleged drug use but also Petro’s fiery political rhetoric. Former Justice Minister Wilson Ruiz has called for a formal investigation into Petro’s mental and physical health.

In a country where political maneuvering often plays out behind the scenes, these accusations raise questions about whether hidden forces are working to undermine a president who may no longer be playing by their rules.