On October 10, Colombian President Gustavo Petro revealed that he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt while flying in a helicopter. This disturbing revelation comes after the president had been facing numerous threats, particularly from drug traffickers, who allegedly conspired to kill him. Petro noted that on the night prior, he could not land in Córdoba due to fears that his helicopter might be targeted, forcing him to fly over open sea for four hours before reaching safety. These dramatic statements were made during a live-streamed meeting with his ministers, emphasizing the gravity of his situation.

The backdrop to this incident is a rise in violence associated with upcoming presidential elections in Colombia, set for three months from now, in which Petro is not eligible for re-election. His claims of assassination plots coincide with escalating tensions as political campaigns heat up, reflecting the potential danger posed by organized crime in the region. Petro's administration has linked this assassination attempt to what he describes as a "new drug cartel" that has emerged since he took office in August 2022, further highlighting the persistent challenges of drug-related violence in Colombia.

In articulating his close brush with death, Petro's comments draw attention to not only his personal safety but also to the broader political climate in Colombia where drug traffickers continue to wield significant influence. The implications of this incident could extend beyond immediate security concerns, affecting public perception of the ongoing electoral process and the stability of the current administration as it grapples with threats from organized crime.