The U.S. State Department has recalled John T. McNamara, the acting ambassador to Colombia, for what it described as ‘urgent consultations,’ following escalating political tensions in the South American nation.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio communicated this decision, attributing it to ‘baseless and reprehensible statements from the highest levels of the Government of Colombia.’
This recall coincides with a significant political crisis triggered by revelations in the Spanish newspaper El País, which reported an alleged plot to oust Colombian President Gustavo Petro.
The investigation has implicated various Colombian political figures, including Vice President Francia Marquez, intensifying the existing turmoil within Colombia’s political landscape.
The situation escalated just days after El País published details about audio leaks involving Petro’s former Foreign Minister, Alvaro Leyva.
The leaked audio suggested Leyva sought support from influential U.S. politicians, purportedly including Secretary Rubio and U.S. House Representative Mario Diaz-Balart, to orchestrate ‘international pressure’ aimed at removing President Petro from power.
However, U.S. congressional sources indicated that the White House did not entertain Leyva’s proposal, and Rubio himself reportedly dismissed it as a ‘ridiculous plan.’
Despite the current political friction, the U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to Colombia, stating that the country remains an essential strategic partner, even amidst policy differences.
The State Department has voiced concerns over the state of bilateral relations, further emphasizing that Washington is pursuing additional measures to address these issues.
The urgency of the recall highlights the deepening diplomatic rift between the U.S. and Colombia, which has witnessed a notable deterioration in relations since President Donald Trump’s second term.
Colombia has traditionally been one of Washington’s key allies in Latin America, relying heavily on U.S. military, financial, and trade support.
However, the climate has shifted significantly since the inauguration of Petro, the country’s first left-wing president, who has openly critiqued the long-standing and ‘privileged’ relationship between Colombia and the United States.
Although the U.S. has not had a formally appointed ambassador since June 2022, John McNamara has served as the Chargé d’Affaires ad interim since February 1 of this year.
His recall marks the second significant diplomatic crisis between the two nations this year, further complicating an already tense situation.
In concluding its statement, the U.S. Department of State reiterated its commitment to cooperation on shared priorities such as regional security and stability, emphasizing an ongoing effort to improve conditions for both Americans and Colombians.
As the political landscape in Colombia continues to evolve, both nations will need to navigate the challenges that arise from their complex relationship.
image source from：colombiaone
