COFormer Ecuadorian President Rafael Correa revealed that a Colombian airline refused to transport former Colombian President Gustavo Petro to Mexico due to his inclusion on the U.S. Treasury’s OFAC sanctions list. During an interview, Correa stated that Avianca denied the flight to avoid U.S. penalties. Petro confirmed the refusal but explained he traveled via AeroMéxico using his diplomatic passport and proper authorization from the Senate. The U.S. added Petro to the OFAC list in October 2025, citing concerns over increased cocaine production under his administration. The Treasury emphasized that financial institutions face sanctions for engaging with individuals on the list.
Bias read (Center): The article presents both Correa’s claims and Petro’s responses, along with official statements from the U.S. Treasury regarding the OFAC sanctions. It does not favor one side over the other and includes direct quotes from multiple parties involved, maintaining neutrality in framing.
