The US President along with his Colombian counterpart have escalated the rhetoric of their exchange, increasing strains bilaterally after US forces struck Venezuela with the aim of deposing the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He runs narcotics facilities and production sites and his time is running out," the US president stated.
Escalating Tensions and Accusations
Addressing journalists over the weekend, the US president suggested similar military action towards the South American nation, asserting Colombia faces serious problems and led by an unwell individual who likes making cocaine and trafficking it to the United States."
Although Colombia stands as the world’s largest cocaine-producing country, no proof exists linking President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is personally involved in the trade.
A Frayed Relationship
Colombia for decades served as a close partner of Washington in the campaign against drug trafficking and received bipartisan support from American politicians, yet ties have deteriorated markedly following Trump came to office.
Colombia’s illicit drug economy is predominantly run by guerrilla factions such as the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and renegade units of the demobilized Farc, a large contingent of whom laid down arms following a 2016 peace deal.
The President's Firm Response
When asked whether armed intervention comparable to Venezuela was being considered against his country, Trump said: "It sounds good to me."
President Petro, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who demobilised decades ago, categorically refuted the accusations. "I am not illegitimate nor am I a drug trafficker," he stated.
"Trump speaks without information. End the false accusations," he expressed online.
"If US bombs target peasants, they will turn into numerous insurgents in the mountains. If they capture me, whom a large part of the country holds in high esteem, they will provoke the powerful force of the nation," Petro warned.
From Insurgent to Leader
The president dedicated part of his youth belonging in the left-wing M-19 armed organization though it is believed he did not took part in armed clashes. Upon leaving the group, he was involved in creating the nation's constitution in the early 90s and eventually served as an influential politician. He was mayor of the Colombian capital prior to his election the nation's highest office.
"I swore not to touch a gun ... but in defense of my country I would take up weapons once more," he affirmed.
Increased Security and Broad Rejection
Colombia's defense chief stated that the national leader's personal security was strengthened.
Several members of Colombia’s political right have sided with Trump's stance, yet figures from across Colombian politics have denounced the notion of an invasion on Colombia.
Bilateral and Economic Strains
The US cancelled Petro’s visa after he urged American soldiers to refuse unlawful commands. Later, in October, it placed financial sanctions targeting Petro, the first lady and a number of associates.
At the same time while America bolstered its military presence in the Caribbean and bombing vessels thought to carry drugs against Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces executed operations against vessels in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.