Colombia Expels Argentinian Diplomats over 'Terrorist, Murderer and Communist'

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Colombia has expelled the diplomat of Argentina following remarks by Argentinian President Javier Milei, who called Colombian President Gustavo Petro a "terrorist," "murderer," and "communist." The move has led to diplomatic tensions between the two nations.

 

According to the Colombian foreign ministry, Milei's comments were "denigrating" and had damaged trust between the two states. They also mentioned that the comments offended the dignity of President Petro, who was democratically elected.

 

Milei made these comments in an interview with CNN, which has not yet been fully aired. In addition to targeting Petro, Milei also criticized other regional leaders, including Mexico's Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

 

The Number of Diplomats Expelled

The exact number of diplomats to be expelled from the Argentinian embassy in Bogota was not specified by Colombia's foreign ministry. However, they stated that the expulsion would be communicated to Argentina through diplomatic channels.

 

This is not the first instance of diplomatic tension between the two countries due to Milei's comments. In January, Colombia recalled its ambassador to Argentina after similar remarks from Milei, who referred to Petro as a "murderous communist."

 

Gustavo Petro, Colombia's first left-wing president, has a history as a former member of the demobilized M-19 rebel movement. Milei's comments in the CNN interview referenced Petro's past involvement with the armed group.

 

Historically, relations between Colombia and Argentina have been stable, but they have been deteriorating since Milei's surprise election last November. Milei's platform included radical promises such as abolishing the central bank and making significant cuts to public spending.

 

Milei's political style has drawn comparisons to former US President Donald Trump, known for his abrasive rhetoric. As a candidate, Milei took conservative stances on social issues, opposing abortion and sex education, and criticizing political correctness.

 

Petro compared Milei's remarks to those of Adolf Hitler and described Milei's election victory as a "regrettable moment for Latin America." Milei's rise to power coincided with Argentina's economic crisis, characterized by high inflation and widespread poverty.

(Courtesy: Al-Jazeera)