Mexico's Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), known for its violent tactics and extensive drug trafficking operations, is expanding its influence into Central and South America. The cartel, which rivals the Sinaloa Cartel, is forming alliances, threatening local authorities, and taking over drug routes in countries such as Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Colombia, and Chile. U.S. officials consider CJNG one of the most dangerous transnational criminal organizations, with ambitions to control the drug supply chain throughout Latin America. The cartel has been actively threatening Guatemalan police and is believed to be establishing operations in Chile for large-scale marijuana production. The presence of CJNG has also been confirmed in Honduras and Nicaragua, where they are setting up bases and training camps. The expansion of CJNG and other Mexican criminal organizations into Latin America poses a significant threat to the region's security and stability, with a lack of international cooperation hindering efforts to combat their influence.

Gustavo Petro, a former left-wing guerrilla member turned social democrat and ex-mayor of Bogota, won the Colombian presidential election with 50.44% of the vote, defeating businessman Rodolfo Hernandez. Petro's victory marks a significant shift from the conservative and liberal elites that have ruled Colombia for two centuries. He promises respect, dialogue, and a focus on climate change, while facing numerous challenges including a divided parliament, inflation, and weak institutions. Francia Marquez, his running mate, becomes the first Afro-Colombian vice-president.

Colombia's upcoming elections could signify major political shifts in the historically conservative country, with a potential rise in electoral violence. The disapproval of right-wing President Ivan Duque has opened the door for alternative candidates like leftist Gustavo Petro. The elections are part of a broader trend in Latin America of moving away from traditional leaders. However, electoral violence remains a significant concern, with armed groups targeting candidates like Yoad Ernesto Pérez Becerra. The outcome of the congressional elections will be crucial in determining the future political landscape and power dynamics in Colombia.

Dairo Antonio Úsuga David, alias 'Otoniel,' a notorious Colombian drug trafficker and leader of the Gulf Clan, pleaded guilty in a U.S. federal court to smuggling nearly 97,000 kilos of cocaine and agreed to forfeit $216 million. Extradited to the U.S. in 2022, Otoniel admitted to providing security for narcotics traffickers and taxing cocaine passing through his territory. Despite his arrest, the Gulf Clan's influence remains strong in Colombia. His defense attorney highlighted Otoniel's troubled past and his message urging peace in Colombia. Experts believe his guilty plea will not significantly impact the ongoing drug war.

Gustavo Petro, the President of Colombia, faces increased pressure following the arrest of his son, Nicolás Petro, on charges of money laundering and illegal enrichment. This scandal threatens Petro's political legitimacy and his efforts to combat narcotrafficking influence in politics. The situation is exacerbated by upcoming gubernatorial elections and stalled reform projects. The European Union's investment plans in Latin America, including Colombia, coincide with these challenges. Additionally, Petro's government struggles with paramilitary disarmament and legislative progress, while facing opposition and internal scandals. The Colombian public shows support for tough measures against criminal groups, drawing comparisons to El Salvador's authoritarian model under President Nayib Bukele.

Colombia is on the brink of a historic presidential election that could see the left win for the first time. Gustavo Petro, a former guerrilla and Bogotá mayor, faces Rodolfo Hernández, a populist business tycoon. Both candidates are divisive and have accused each other of corruption. The election follows significant anti-inequality protests and the fragile 2016 peace deal with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc). Regardless of the winner, Colombia's next vice-president will be a black woman, marking another historic milestone.