Colombian President Petro Accuses Peru of Occupying Santa Rosa Island, Citing 1933 Treaty; Batalla de Boyacá Moved to Leticia

Colombian President Gustavo Petro has accused the Peruvian government of occupying a territory that belongs to Colombia in the Amazon region, specifically referencing the island of Santa Rosa. Petro stated that Peru has "copado" (taken over) this Colombian territory, citing a treaty signed in 1933 to support Colombia's claim. The accusation has led to heightened tensions between the two countries, with Petro announcing the relocation of the Batalla de Boyacá commemoration to Leticia as a response to the dispute. The Peruvian government has rejected these claims, denying any appropriation of Colombian land. The presence of Peruvian flags on the disputed Amazon island has been noted amid the ongoing dispute. Additionally, Petro declared that Colombia does not recognize either the sovereignty or authorities of Peru on Santa Rosa island. The dispute has revived an old territorial conflict between Colombia and Peru. Meanwhile, Venezuela has expressed solidarity with Colombia on the 206th anniversary of the Batalla de Boyacá, emphasizing unity in the region. The situation has drawn criticism within Colombia, including from Medellín's mayor, Federico Gutiérrez, who commented on Petro's confrontational stance toward Peru and other countries.