Colombian President Compares Cocaine to Whisky

Bogotá: Colombian President Gustavo Petro claimed that cocaine is “no worse than whisky.”
He suggested that global legalization could dismantle the cocaine industry.
Colombia is the world’s top cocaine producer, mainly supplying the US and Europe.
The government has battled drug trafficking for decades without success.

Petro’s Argument
Petro stated that cocaine is illegal only because it originates in Latin America.
He argued that scientific studies support his comparison between cocaine and alcohol.
The leftist leader took office in 2022, promising to regulate drug use.
Despite his leadership, cocaine production in Colombia has risen sharply.

Surge in Production
Colombian coca leaf cultivation increased by 10% in 2023.
Potential production exceeded 2,600 metric tons, a 53% increase.
These figures were reported by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
Petro suggested that legalizing cocaine globally would combat trafficking.

Contrasting with Fentanyl
Petro highlighted fentanyl as a far deadlier drug.
He pointed out that fentanyl is not produced in Colombia.
The synthetic opioid is a leading cause of overdose deaths in the US.
Petro blamed North American pharmaceutical companies for its creation.

Tensions with the US
His remarks follow a recent diplomatic dispute with President Trump.
Trump blocked two US military flights deporting Colombian migrants.
He accused the US of treating Colombian migrants unfairly.
Colombia later agreed to accept deportees after threats of trade penalties.

Future Drug Policy
Petro remains committed to shifting Colombia’s drug policies.
He insists legalization is the best way to dismantle the narcotics trade.
His views have sparked debate in Colombia and internationally.
Observers await potential reactions from world leaders.