The US President and his Colombian counterpart have intensified the rhetoric in their verbal conflict, further raising tensions bilaterally after US forces targeted Venezuela to remove the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He operates narcotics facilities and processing labs and his time is running out," the US president stated.
Growing Tensions and Claims
Addressing journalists over the weekend, the American leader hinted at analogous use of force against Bogotá, claiming Colombia faces serious problems and led by a problematic figure who likes making narcotics and selling it to America."
While Colombia stands as the leading producer of cocaine, there is no evidence implicating Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is personally tied to the illicit industry.
A Strained Relationship
This nation was historically 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 following Trump came to office.
Colombia’s illicit drug economy is mainly overseen by illegal armed groups including the Clan del Golfo, another leftist insurgency and breakaway groups of the demobilized Farc, a large contingent of whom demobilised subsequent to a landmark accord.
Colombia's Strong Rebuttal
Upon being questioned if military intervention comparable to Venezuela was being considered for Colombia, Trump said: "It sounds good to me."
Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who demobilised decades ago, rejected the accusations. "I am no illegitimate nor am I a drug trafficker," he stated.
"Trump speaks without knowledge. Cease defaming me," he expressed in a message.
"Should American forces attack rural communities, they will transform into numerous insurgents in the hills. And should they arrest me, which a large part of the population holds in high esteem, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the nation," Petro warned.
From Guerrilla to Statesman
Petro spent part of his youth as a member with the radical M-19 armed organization but is not believed to have ever took part in armed clashes. Following his disarmament, he took part in writing a new constitution in the early 90s and eventually served as a prominent senator. He was mayor of the Colombian capital prior to his election president.
"I swore to never again hold arms again ... but in defense of my country I shall resume arms again," he affirmed.
Increased Security along with Widespread Condemnation
Minister Pedro Sánchez reported that Petro's security detail had received additional support.
A segment of Colombia’s conservative opposition have expressed support with Trump's stance, but voices from across the ideological divide have denounced the notion of an invasion against their nation.
Bilateral and Financial Pressure
The US withdrew the president's entry visa following he called on US troops to ignore any illegal orders. Months later, it placed asset freezes on Petro, his wife and various key allies.
Concurrently as the US increased its forces in the region and striking vessels thought to carry drugs against Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets executed attacks against vessels in Pacific waters near Colombia.
