President Gustavo Petro's defense of Nicolás Maduro's regime in Venezuela has generated a great deal of reaction in Colombia, accusing the president of going down the wrong path.
Former Defense Minister Juan Carlos Pinzón was one of those who reacted against the messages published by the head of state this Sunday, August 10, through his personal account on X.
The former ambassador asked the Colombian president not to be “irresponsible” with the country and reminded him of the way in which, according to him, 21st-century “narco-socialism” operates, driven by “chaos, impoverishment, political persecution, violence, and institutional destruction.”
“You have decided, head on, to enter into an alliance with Maduro’s narco-dictatorship, which has been allied with organized crime and terrorist groups that attack the Colombian people,” Pinzón said.
He also reminded him of the situation in Venezuela: "The people are the ones who suffer so the regime can consolidate its position. Is this what you're seeking for Colombia? Your neo-communist ideology, as well as the rampant corruption surrounding you, is more important than your duty as president."
Pinzó stated that the country's military and police forces "have a constitutional duty to obey." However, he also emphasized that"they have no obligation to support a violation of the Constitution or a narco-political alliance," and therefore issued a warning.
“Be careful when issuing illegal and unconstitutional orders. Make no mistake. You are famous in the world of war for being cowardly and devious, but you do want, in your desperation and ecstasy, to lead our people into external conflicts,” he said in his message on social media.
Finally, he concluded: “Your attitude is typical of madness and an insatiable desire for power. Don't be cruel to the country. Even though all you've done is attack the country. Think again, change your mind. I'm not doing any more harm to Colombians.”
President, DO NOT make a mistake. Do not be irresponsible with Colombia.
— Pinzón Bueno (@PinzonBueno) August 10, 2025
You have decided to enter into an alliance with Maduro's narco-dictatorship, which has been allied with organized crime and terrorist groups that attack the Colombian people.
The narco-socialism of… https://t.co/FP53Qb2ZfU