U.S. federal prosecutors are investigating Colombian President Gustavo Petro regarding allegations of ties to drug trafficking rings, according to two sources familiar with the matter.
Sources say that prosecutors in Brooklyn and Manhattan have recently questioned several drug traffickers, focusing on connections to Petro and allegations that his representatives offered to accept bribes to block extradition to the U.S.
The investigation is currently in its early stages. There is no information suggesting that prosecutors have determined Petro engaged in illegal activity.
One line of inquiry focuses on La Picota prison in Colombia, where allegations surfaced that Petro's representatives offered deals to drug traffickers: money in exchange for not being extradited to the U.S.
The Colombian Presidency declined to comment on the investigation.
Petro has repeatedly denied drug-related allegations. Previously, President Trump had called him an "illegal drug leader," and the U.S. Treasury Department imposed sanctions in late 2025 related to similar allegations, at a time when fentanyl cases in New York were putting significant pressure on the administration.
Petro maintains that his administration focuses on cracking down on major gangs while adopting a softer approach toward coca-growing farmers.
The case was first reported by the New York Times.
Other sources indicate that Petro was placed under monitoring as drug kingpin investigations in New York expanded. The final outcome remains unclear, and it has not yet been determined whether it will lead to an indictment.
President Petro, a former member of a rebel group, came to power with promises to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and address poverty.
Relations between Petro and the Trump administration have been strained over immigration policy and critical remarks as many migrant families leaving Colombia search for the American dream. However, after a meeting in February, President Trump described Petro as "very great."
Petro's family has also faced investigation. His son was indicted in 2023 for receiving illegal funds from drug traffickers. His brother has also been mentioned in allegations regarding negotiations with criminals to avoid extradition.
Colombia has long been associated with large-scale cocaine trafficking. The country's political history has frequently been influenced by money from drug cartels.
