The US President along with his Colombian counterpart have turned up the tone of their war of words, further raising strains in their relations following US forces attacked Venezuela with the aim of deposing the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He has narcotics facilities and production sites and that won't last much longer," Trump added.
Escalating Tensions coupled with Claims
Talking to reporters on Sunday, the US president suggested analogous military action against Bogotá, stating the country faces serious problems and led by an unwell individual who enjoys creating cocaine and trafficking it to America."
While Colombia remains the globe's biggest producer of cocaine, no proof exists implicating Gustavo Petro, who was elected in 2022, is personally involved in the illicit industry.
A Frayed Partnership
Colombia for decades served as a staunch collaborator of the United States in the fight against drug trafficking and benefited from bipartisan support in Washington, however, the relationship have soured markedly since Trump came to office.
Its drug trade is predominantly run by guerrilla factions such as the Clan del Golfo, the ELN guerrilla group and breakaway groups of the demobilized Farc, a large contingent of whom laid down arms after a landmark accord.
Petro's Strong Rebuttal
When asked whether military intervention similar to Venezuela was a possibility regarding Colombia, Trump replied: "That seems like a good idea to me."
Petro, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who left armed struggle decades ago, rejected Trump's claims. "I am no an illegitimate leader nor am I involved in narcotics," he stated.
"The US president speaks without knowledge. End the false accusations," he wrote in a post.
"If they [the US] bomb civilians, they will turn into numerous insurgents in the hills. And should they arrest the president, whom many of Colombians admires and supports, they will release the ‘jaguar’ of the nation," the president cautioned.
From Guerrilla to Leader
He passed part of his youth participating in the left-wing M-19 armed organization though it is believed to have ever participated in combat. Following his disarmament, he took part in drafting the nation's constitution in the early 90s and later became a respected lawmaker. He was mayor of the capital city before winning the nation's highest office.
"I made a vow to never again hold a weapon again ... but for the homeland I will take up weapons once more," he said.
Reinforced Protection and Widespread Rejection
Colombia's defense chief stated that Petro's security detail was strengthened.
A segment of Colombia’s political right have sided with Trump's stance, yet figures from across the ideological divide have denounced the threats of a US attack against their nation.
Political and Economic Strains
Washington revoked Petro’s visa subsequent to he encouraged US troops to refuse unlawful commands. Months later, the US enacted asset freezes targeting Petro, the first lady and a number of close collaborators.
Simultaneously as the US increased its military presence near Venezuela and targeting suspected drug boats to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets have also conducted operations on boats off the Pacific coast near Colombia.
