Federal prosecutors in Manhattan and Brooklyn are investigating Colombian President Gustavo Petro for possible ties to drug traffickers, according to sources familiar with the matter. The criminal inquiries, conducted by prosecutors specializing in international narcotics trafficking and involving DEA and Homeland Security agents, are examining whether Petro met with traffickers and if his campaign solicited illegal donations.

Petro, Colombia's first left-wing president, has denied any involvement in drug trafficking and highlighted his government's success in reducing coca cultivation. The investigations come amid a volatile relationship with President Trump, who has called Petro a "sick man" and previously threatened Colombia with tariffs after Petro blocked deportation flights. The Treasury Department sanctioned Petro and his family in October, citing cocaine trafficking concerns.

This development raises questions about U.S. leverage over Colombia, the world's top cocaine producer and a key ally in combating narco-terrorism. While the investigations remain in early stages with no charges filed, Trump could potentially use them to influence Colombia's May presidential elections or extract cooperation on regional security matters. The probes follow Trump's pattern of wielding criminal inquiries against political adversaries and come as the administration increasingly uses legal tools to advance foreign policy objectives.