Colombian Amazon indigenous warn of rising deforestation if USAID ends support: Video
Indigenous leaders from the Colombian Amazon have warned that deforestation and drug trafficking could increase if USAID funding is withdrawn due to U.S. President Donald Trump’s decision.
Osvaldo Muca, President of OPIAC (National Organisation of Indigenous Peoples of the Colombian Amazon), is calling on the Colombian government to replace the lost financial support to prevent severe consequences for Amazonian territories.
“Now that USAID funding will no longer be available, we must ensure this doesn't lead to the growth of illicit mining, drug trafficking, or the recruitment of young people into illegal activities,” Muca stated. “The government needs to step in to replace this support, as its absence could have serious consequences,” he told the AFP.
Muca also expressed concerns about Trump’s stance on climate change, warning that deforestation in the Colombian Amazon is likely to rise. “Since President Trump has always opposed climate change policies and doesn’t believe in them, deforestation is very likely to increase,” he said.
While President Donald Trump is swiftly moving to shut down USAID, calling it a waste of money run by “lunatics,” experts caution that this decision could ultimately benefit China.
