Milei Calls Petro a “Terrorist”, Sparking Expulsion of Diplomats

In a bold diplomatic move, Colombia has expelled the Argentine diplomatic corps, a decision triggered by Argentine President Javier Milei’s contentious remarks about Colombian President Gustavo Petro. During a CNN interview, Milei referred to Petro as a “terrorist murderer,” sparking an immediate backlash and leading to this unprecedented expulsion. The incident, unfolding on Wednesday, March 27, has sent ripples through diplomatic circles, highlighting the fragile nature of international relations.

Escalation of diplomatic strains

The Colombian government, in a stern response to Milei’s comments, expelled Argentina’s diplomats, citing the remarks as a severe breach of trust and an affront to President Petro’s dignity. Petro, elected through democratic means, has been at the center of Milei’s criticism, primarily focused on Petro’s past involvement in guerrilla activities. This expulsion marks a significant downturn in Colombia-Argentina relations, underscoring the potential consequences of political discourse on diplomatic ties.

Political reactions in Colombia

The decision has elicited mixed reactions from Colombian politicians. Andrés Calle, President of the Chamber of Representatives from the Liberal Party, expressed support for the government’s stance, emphasizing the importance of focusing on constructive solutions for the region rather than personal attacks. Conversely, María Fernanda Cabal, a senator from the opposition Centro Democrático party, criticized the decision, declaring her support for Milei and asserting that Petro’s actions do not represent the Colombian populace.

Senator Iván Cepeda, representing the government’s side, clarified that the measure was not against the Argentine people but specifically targeted at Milei, accusing him of authoritarian governance. Humberto de la Calle, another senator, called for a distinction between inevitable presidential disagreements and unacceptable insults, condemning Milei’s disrespectful comments towards Petro.

The situation has divided opinions among Colombians, with some backing the government’s decision to defend national dignity and others criticizing it as an overreaction. The incident highlights the deep ideological divides that can influence diplomatic relations and the importance of respectful discourse in international politics.