Tensions rise as Venezuelan President sparks allegations of impending hostility from within Venezuela, through remarks about simmering aggression.
Get the scoop on the latest diplomatic drama! Venezuela's taking aim at Colombia's Prezzy P, Gustavo Petro, over his accusations of illegal activities orchestrated from its territory. Here's the lowdown on the fiery exchange.
Petro's Rant on Social Media
In a hot, steamy post on X, Petro called out the assassination of a union leader – a member of his political flock, no less – allegedly by Colombia's Gulf Clan, the resident bad boys of the cartel scene. Petro claimed that the Gulf Clan had forged an alliance with Colombia's National Liberation Army (ELN), operating on the Venezuelan side.
Say What Now, Venezuela?
Venezuela's Foreign Affairs Ministry wasn't having it and lodged a protest in a blazing hot letter. The letter branded Petro's claims as unfounded, suggesting that aggressions by illegal armed groups were being orchestrated from Venezuelan territory, allegedly in collusion with shady Colombian characters. The letter didn't specify which of Petro's fiery words sparked its outrage, but it was probably the juicy bits about the Gulf Clan and the ELN.
Not My Problem, Bro
So, who's the Gulf Clan and the ELN, you ask? Well, the ELN is an armed guerrilla group that's been causing trouble since 1964, inspired by the Cuban revolution and liberation theology. They've got a strong presence in border zones with Venezuela. As for the Gulf Clan, they're the most active cartel in Colombia.
A Troubled Relationship
The diplomatic relationship between Venezuela and Colombia has been a wild ride, loaded with issues like security, energy, migration, and trade. That being said, the two nations are eager to improve their relationship, especially under Petro's administration. However, mounting allegations of anti-government conspiracies and border security concerns have stoked the flames of tension.
The beef doesn't end there, either. Venezuela has accused Colombia of ignoring security threats from its territory, while Colombia's slammed Venezuela for its restrictive stance on Venezuelan migration. As a result, flights from Colombia to Venezuela remain grounded, further tightening border controls.
The Complex Web of Perspectives
Allegations of anti-government conspiracies haven't been limited to this latest spat between Petro and Venezuela's top brass. In May 2025, Venezuela banned flights from Colombia following the arrest of over 30 individuals, accused of plotting against the Venezuelan government ahead of elections. The Venezuelan government alleged that these individuals were involved in plans to destabilize the country by placing explosives at embassies and other facilities, with links to international criminal organizations and the Venezuelan political opposition.
As the dust settles, both countries will need to address these allegations and security concerns to normalize diplomatic and economic ties. The broader regional context, including inter-state conflicts and political alliances, will play a significant role in shaping the future of Venezuela-Colombia relations. Only time will tell if these neighbors can mend fences and get back to the good old days of beer and soccer matches.
In the meantime, don't forget to tuned in for the latest juicy gossip on our website – we've got a finger on the pulse of all things South American!
- The Foreign Affairs Ministry of Venezuela responded to President Gustavo Petro's accusations by asserting that his claims of illegal activities, such as the alleged collusion between the Gulf Clan and the National Liberation Army, were unfounded and suggested that aggressions by illegal armed groups might be orchestrated from Venezuelan territory, causing further escalation in the already tense politics between the two countries.
- The diplomatic relationship between Venezuela and Colombia has been marred by a complex web of perspectives, involving allegations of anti-government conspiracies, border security concerns, and policy-and-legislation issues, making it challenging to achieve average cooperation between the two nations amidst war-and-conflicts and general-news headlines.
