The US President and Colombia's president have intensified the rhetoric of their war of words, increasing strains bilaterally after American military units struck Venezuela in an operation to oust the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He has drug factories and production sites and his time is running out," Trump remarked.
Growing Threats coupled with Accusations
Talking to reporters on Sunday, the American leader threatened similar armed intervention against Colombia, asserting the nation is “very sick too” and led by an unwell individual involved in producing cocaine and trafficking it to America."
While Colombia stands as the leading cocaine-producing country, authorities have found no indication linking President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is directly tied to the business.
A Strained Partnership
The country for decades served as a staunch collaborator of the United States in the campaign combating drug cartels and enjoyed wide political approval from American politicians, but relations have worsened significantly after Trump assumed the presidency.
Colombia’s illicit drug economy is predominantly run by illegal armed groups like the Clan del Golfo, the ELN guerrilla group and dissident factions of the former Farc guerrillas, most of its former fighters demobilised following a 2016 peace deal.
Colombia's Strong Answer
Upon being questioned whether a military operation similar to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump responded: "It sounds good to me personally."
The Colombian leader, an ex-guerrilla fighter who left armed struggle decades ago, categorically refuted Trump's claims. "I am no an illegitimate leader nor am I a drug trafficker," he affirmed.
"He comments without information. Cease defaming me," he wrote online.
"Should American forces attack rural communities, they will become a multitude of fighters in the mountains. And should they arrest the nation's leader, whom many of the country loves and respects, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the people," Petro warned.
From Insurgent to Leader
He passed part of his youth as a member in the left-wing M-19 armed organization although reports indicate that he never took part in armed clashes. Upon leaving the group, he participated in creating the nation's constitution in 1991 and eventually served as a prominent senator. He held the office of mayor of the capital city prior to his election the nation's highest office.
"I swore to abstain from using arms again ... but in defense of my country I would take up arms again," he affirmed.
Heightened Measures along with Broad Condemnation
Colombia's defense chief stated that Petro's security detail was strengthened.
Many among Colombia’s political right have expressed support with the US president, yet figures spanning Colombian politics have condemned the notion of American military action against their nation.
Diplomatic and Financial Pressure
Washington cancelled Petro’s visa after he urged US military personnel to refuse orders that violate law. In October, authorities imposed financial sanctions targeting Petro, his spouse and a number of associates.
At the same time while America bolstered its military presence near Venezuela and bombing alleged narcotics traffickers to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets also carried out attacks on boats in Pacific waters near Colombia.
