In a bold social media post, Colombian President Gustavo Petro shrugged off the U.S. State Department's decision to revoke his visa, declaring "I don't need it." The move comes after Washington cited his "reckless and incendiary actions" at a pro-Palestinian protest in New York.
At the rally, Petro urged U.S. troops to "obey humanity rather than Trump's orders," and later took aim at U.S. policy on Gaza: "Killing innocent babies will not make America great," he wrote online.
Experts say this visa revocation is a rare diplomatic rebuke that underscores growing tensions between Bogota and Washington. According to State Department data, fewer than 10 heads of state have faced similar measures in the past two decades.
For young global citizens and activists, Petro's response highlights a broader debate about free speech and international solidarity. "Criminalizing dissent sets a dangerous precedent," says political analyst Maria Gomez. "This isn't just about one leader's visa – it's about the right to speak out on global issues."
As diplomats on both sides weigh the fallout, business and tech communities are watching closely. U.S.-Colombian trade reached $24 billion last year, and any further strain could ripple through industries from agriculture to fintech.
Whether this standoff escalates or eases, Petro's message is clear: freedom of speech isn't negotiable, and he doesn't need a U.S. visa to keep making his voice heard.
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Colombian president responds to U.S. visa revocation: 'I don't need it'
cgtn.com
