The US President along with President Gustavo Petro have turned up the rhetoric of their war of words, increasing strains in their relations after US forces attacked Venezuela with the aim of deposing President Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He has narcotics facilities and processing labs and that won't last much longer," Trump remarked.
Rising Tensions and Accusations
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Trump hinted at comparable use of force towards the South American nation, stating the country faces serious problems and led by a problematic figure who enjoys creating the drug and distributing it to the United States."
Although Colombia remains the world’s largest cocaine-producing country, authorities have found no indication that President Gustavo Petro, who was elected in 2022, is personally involved in the illicit industry.
A Strained Alliance
Colombia for decades served as a close partner of Washington in the campaign against narcotics trade and enjoyed bipartisan support in Washington, but relations have soured dramatically after Trump was elected.
Colombia’s narcotics trade is mainly overseen by guerrilla factions such as the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), the majority of whose members disbanded subsequent to a landmark accord.
Colombia's Firm Answer
When asked whether a military operation like that in Venezuela was a possibility regarding Colombia, Trump responded: "It sounds good from my perspective."
President Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who demobilised decades ago, rejected Trump's claims. "I am not illegitimate nor am I a narco," he stated.
"Trump speaks uninformed. Stop slandering me," he wrote online.
"If US bombs target civilians, they will become thousands of guerrillas across the countryside. If they capture me, whom a significant portion of the country admires and supports, they will release the powerful force of the populace," he admonished.
From Insurgent to Leader
He passed a period in his early life as a member of the leftist M-19 guerrilla group but is not believed that he never engaged in fighting. Following his disarmament, he participated in creating a new constitution over three decades ago and later became an influential politician. He was mayor of the capital city prior to his election the presidency.
"I made a vow not to touch arms again ... but for the homeland I would take up the fight," he said.
Increased Security along with Widespread Rejection
Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that the national leader's security detail was strengthened.
Many among Colombia’s right wing opposition have expressed support with Trump, however, leaders from all sides of the political spectrum have condemned the possibility of an invasion targeting Colombia.
Bilateral and Economic Sanctions
The US revoked Petro’s visa after he encouraged American soldiers to disobey orders that violate law. Later, in October, authorities imposed asset freezes against the president, his spouse and a number of key allies.
At the same time while America bolstered its forces near Venezuela and targeting suspected drug boats against Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets have also conducted strikes against vessels in the eastern Pacific region adjacent to Colombia.
