Colombian President Struggles to Access Salary Amid US Sanctions

Colombian President Gustavo Petro is reportedly unable to receive his official salary due to U.S. sanctions impacting financial institutions tied to his government. His lawyer claims the restrictions have created bureaucratic obstacles, leaving Petro in an unprecedented situation.

How US Sanctions Are Disrupting Payments

The U.S. Treasury Department recently sanctioned multiple Colombian entities and individuals over alleged ties to money laundering and drug trafficking. While Petro himself was not directly targeted, the measures have indirectly frozen financial pipelines used for his salary.

Colombia’s banking system relies on U.S.-based intermediaries for international transactions. The sanctions have forced banks to scrutinize or halt transfers involving government officials, including Petro’s payroll. His legal team alleges political motivations, though U.S. officials deny singling out the president.

Legal Challenges and Sovereignty Concerns

President Petro’s lawyer, Diego Martínez, has called the delay an “unacceptable interference” in Colombia’s sovereignty.

“The president of a sovereign nation should not have to beg foreign powers for his salary,” Martínez stated, suggesting the sanctions are pressuring Petro’s leftist government.

Legal petitions to expedite payment remain stuck in compliance checks. Analysts speculate Petro may need alternative solutions—like cash payments or non-sanctioned banks—an unusual move for a sitting leader.

Political Fallout in Colombia

The controversy has divided Colombian politics:

• Supporters see it as U.S. overreach.
• Opponents question Petro’s financial transparency.

“Why is his salary blocked if there’s nothing to hide?” asked conservative Senator María Fernanda Cabal. Meanwhile, Petro’s allies advocate reducing reliance on the U.S. dollar system.

Strained US-Colombia Relations

The salary freeze adds tension to already delicate U.S.-Colombia relations. Petro’s policies—such as renegotiating drug-eradication plans and re-engaging Venezuela—clash with U.S. interests. If unresolved, the issue could push Colombia toward U.S. rivals like China or Russia for banking alternatives.

What’s Next?

Petro’s team is working to resolve the payment delays, but the situation highlights the sweeping impact of U.S. sanctions. Whether this is a temporary setback or a sign of deepening financial conflict remains unclear.

One thing is certain: A sitting president struggling to receive his salary is an unexpected headline.

— Reported by NextMinuteNews