The United States has decertified Colombia for counternarcotics failures, marking the first such action in nearly three decades. The decision, announced on September 15, 2025, by President Donald Trump, cites a significant increase in cocaine production and a failure to meet international counternarcotics obligations.
Data from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime indicates a 53% rise in potential cocaine production in 2023, reaching a record high. This surge is linked to a near threefold expansion of coca cultivation, which covered 253,000 hectares in 2023. President Gustavo Petro's administration has pursued alternative strategies, including crop substitution programs, which have yielded mixed results.
Despite the decertification, the U.S. administration has issued a waiver, allowing Colombia to continue receiving critical assistance deemed vital to U.S. national interests. This measure aims to mitigate potential economic and security repercussions for Colombia, a key regional ally. However, the decertification carries implications for Colombia's economy and security, potentially exacerbating challenges such as a fiscal deficit and increased violence.
The decision has also led to a suspension of Colombian arms purchases from the U.S., highlighting diplomatic friction. President Petro has criticized the U.S. decision, emphasizing Colombia's extensive efforts and sacrifices in combating drug trafficking, while also questioning the effectiveness of U.S. domestic drug consumption policies. The U.S. administration, in turn, has attributed the drug production surge to President Petro's leadership.
Historically, Colombia had been certified for nearly thirty years prior to this decision. The United States has provided substantial aid to Colombia, approximately $14 billion since 2000, much of which supported the country's military and police. Analysts suggest that while the waiver softens the immediate impact, the decertification could still lead to a chill in bilateral ties and influence future cooperation.
The U.S. previously decertified Colombia in 1996 and 1997 during President Ernesto Samper's administration due to accusations of drug financing in his campaign.