Possible Attack on Colombia's President

BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) — Colombian President Gustavo Petro was reportedly the target of a potential attack during a public event in downtown Bogotá in July, according to Defense Minister Iván Velásquez. While Velásquez confirmed the existence of information regarding the threat, he did not provide specific details or evidence. The incident occurred during the military parade on July 20, which marked Colombia's 214th independence anniversary, where Petro arrived several hours late, citing the need to verify information with the U.S. embassy and issues with his security team. Petro's late arrival has been attributed to security concerns, as emphasized by his ally, Gustavo Bolívar. Since taking office in 2022, Petro, the first leftist president in Colombia's history, has faced numerous threats, particularly through social media. He reported these threats to the prosecutor's office, highlighting the ongoing risks associated with his leadership. His public appearances are often accompanied by a significant security presence due to these threats. The Defense Minister noted that this was not the first instance of potential threats against the president, underscoring ongoing intelligence efforts to ensure Petro's safety. Despite these measures, violence remains a pressing issue in Colombia, exacerbated by ongoing negotiations with various armed groups, including the National Liberation Army and factions of the FARC dissidents. These groups are engaged in fierce competition for control over drug trafficking routes and illegal mining operations, complicating the government's peace initiatives.