The US President and his Colombian counterpart have intensified the volume of their war of words, increasing strains between the two countries after US forces attacked Venezuela to remove Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He has drug factories and production sites and that won't last much longer," Trump added.
Escalating Tensions coupled with Claims
Talking to journalists over the weekend, the US president hinted at similar armed intervention towards the South American nation, asserting Colombia faces serious problems and “run by a sick man who likes making narcotics and selling it to the US."
While Colombia stands as the world’s largest cocaine-producing country, authorities have found no indication that President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is directly connected to the illicit industry.
A Strained Alliance
Colombia has long been a staunch collaborator of the United States in the struggle combating drug cartels and enjoyed wide political approval in Washington, however, the relationship have deteriorated markedly since Trump came to office.
Colombia’s drug trade is predominantly run by illegal armed groups like one major cartel, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and breakaway groups of the demobilized Farc, the majority of whose members laid down arms after a landmark accord.
Colombia's Defiant Answer
When asked whether a military operation similar to Venezuela was a possibility for Colombia, Trump said: "That seems like a good idea from my perspective."
Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who disarmed in the 1990s, categorically refuted the accusations. "I am no an illegitimate leader nor am I a narco," he stated.
"He comments without information. Stop slandering me," he wrote in a message.
"Should American forces attack rural communities, they will transform into thousands of guerrillas in the hills. And if they detain me, whom a large part of the population admires and supports, they will provoke the powerful force of the nation," the president cautioned.
From Fighter to President
The president dedicated a period in his early life participating in the left-wing M-19 armed organization but is not believed to have ever took part in armed clashes. Following his disarmament, he participated in drafting the nation's constitution over three decades ago subsequently becoming a respected lawmaker. He held the office of mayor of the capital city before winning the nation's highest office.
"I swore to abstain from using arms again ... but in defense of my country I shall resume the fight," he affirmed.
Increased Security along with Broad Opposition
The Colombian defence minister stated that Petro's protection team had received additional support.
Many among Colombia’s right wing opposition have expressed support with the US president, yet figures from all sides of the political spectrum have condemned the threats of a US attack targeting Colombia.
Bilateral and Economic Sanctions
Washington withdrew Petro’s visa subsequent to he encouraged US military personnel to refuse orders that violate law. Months later, the US enacted asset freezes targeting Petro, the first lady and various associates.
Simultaneously the US was building up its military presence in the region and bombing alleged narcotics traffickers against Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces executed attacks on boats off the Pacific coast near Colombia.
