‘Cocaine Is No Worse Than Whisky, It’s Just Illegal Because It’s Made In Latin America,’ Says Colombian President Petro, Taking Aim At US Drug Policy
By Camila Berriex via El Planteo
During a Council of Ministers meeting at the Casa de Nariño, Colombian President Gustavo Petro reignited a heated global debate by comparing cocaine to whisky and questioning its criminalization.
“Cocaine is illegal because it’s made in Latin America, not because it’s more harmful than whisky.”
His statement, broadcast live, immediately sparked divided reactions. Supporters see it as a serious call to rethink the failed War on Drugs, while critics argue that equating cocaine with whisky downplays its dangers. Regardless, his words have reignited a crucial debate on international drug policy.
Legalizing Cocaine To Undermine Drug Cartels?
Petro argues that legalizing cocaine could dismantle the illicit drug trade, much like regulating alcohol ended Prohibition-era criminal enterprises.
“The …