President Trump and Colombia's president have turned up the tone of their war of words, increasing tensions in their relations after American military units targeted Venezuela in an operation to oust the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He has drug factories and production sites and his time is running out," Trump added.
Rising Rhetoric and Allegations
Speaking to journalists over the weekend, the American leader hinted at analogous use of force against Colombia, stating the nation is “very sick too” and governed by a problematic figure who likes making narcotics and selling it to the US."
Although Colombia is the leading producer of cocaine, there is no evidence implicating Gustavo Petro, who was elected in 2022, is directly involved in the trade.
A Deteriorating Relationship
The country has long been a close partner of the US in the campaign against narcotics trade and enjoyed wide political approval from American politicians, but relations have soured markedly since Trump came to office.
Colombia’s drug trade is largely controlled by guerrilla factions like one major cartel, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and renegade units of the demobilized Farc, a large contingent of whom disbanded following a landmark accord.
Colombia's Firm Rebuttal
In response to a query if armed intervention like that in Venezuela was being considered against his country, Trump responded: "That seems like a good idea to me."
Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who left armed struggle in the last century, firmly denied the accusations. "I am not illegitimate nor am I a drug trafficker," he affirmed.
"He comments without information. End the false accusations," he wrote in a message.
"If US bombs target civilians, they will transform into numerous insurgents in the mountains. If they capture me, whom a significant portion of the population loves and respects, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the nation," he admonished.
From Fighter to Statesman
Petro spent part of his youth belonging of the leftist M-19 armed organization though it is believed he did not engaged in fighting. Following his disarmament, he took part in drafting the nation's constitution in the early 90s subsequently becoming a respected lawmaker. He was mayor of the capital city before winning president.
"I made a vow not to touch arms again ... but in defense of my country I would take up the fight," he affirmed.
Increased Security along with Widespread Condemnation
The Colombian defence minister reported that the national leader's protection team was strengthened.
A segment of Colombia’s conservative opposition have allied themselves with the US president, but voices from all sides of the political spectrum have condemned the threats of American military action on Colombia.
Political and Economic Pressure
Washington revoked his travel authorization following he urged US military personnel to disobey any illegal orders. Later, in October, the US enacted financial sanctions on Petro, the first lady and a number of close collaborators.
Simultaneously as the US increased its troop levels in the Caribbean and bombing suspected drug boats against Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets executed strikes on boats in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.
