Petro Names Military Veteran Sánchez to Lead Defense

President Gustavo Petro unveils General Pedro Sánchez as Colombia’s new Defense Minister during a governors’ summit, El Colombiano reports on February 19, 2025.

Sánchez, a seasoned Colombian Aerospace Force officer, replaces Iván Velásquez after a dramatic cabinet shakeup. This marks the first time in over 30 years a military figure takes this role.

Sánchez commands attention with 6,800 flight hours and master’s degrees in security, strategy, and U.S. Air Force studies. He leads presidential security briefly before this appointment and once directs the Joint Special Operations Command.

His 2023 jungle rescue of four Indigenous children after a plane crash boosts his reputation. Petro triggers this change by requesting his entire cabinet’s resignation on February 9, following a controversial live-streamed meeting.

The broadcast reveals tensions over Armando Benedetti’s Chief of Staff appointment, prompting seven ministers to quit. Velásquez, praised for 30 months of “moralizing” the military, exits amid stalled peace talks with groups like the ELN.

Petro Reshapes Cabinet Amid Rising Tensions

Meanwhile, Petro appoints Antonio Sanguino as Labor Minister and María Fernanda Rojas as Transportation Minister on February 18. More names remain pending as the president reshapes his team with 18 months left in office.

Critics link the chaos to Benedetti’s divisive past, including alleged influence peddling scandals. Sánchez steps into a tough spot, facing rising violence in Catatumbo and pressure to advance Petro’s peace agenda.

His military roots spark debate—some see strength, others question his fit for diplomacy after unverified praise for a dissident leader surfaces online. Still, Petro trusts him to steer Colombia toward stability.

The stakes rise as Petro’s first leftist term nears its 2026 end with approval ratings under scrutiny. Sánchez’s appointment shifts focus to security, blending military know-how with political demands.

Observers watch closely as this overhaul tests Petro’s grip on power. This shakeup ripples beyond defense, impacting business confidence and Colombia’s global image.

Sánchez’s leadership now carries weight for investors eyeing stability in a nation key to regional trade. The next few days promise more clarity on Petro’s final lineup. For now, a general’s rise anchors a government scrambling to steady itself.