The US President along with President Gustavo Petro have intensified the tone of their exchange, increasing tensions bilaterally after American military units struck Venezuela with the aim of deposing the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He operates cocaine mills and cocaine factories and is not going to be doing it very long," the US president stated.
Growing Tensions coupled with Claims
Speaking to the press on Sunday, the American leader threatened comparable armed intervention against Bogotá, claiming Colombia faces serious problems and led by a sick man who enjoys creating cocaine and selling it to the US."
Although Colombia remains the globe's biggest source of the narcotic, no proof exists linking President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is in any way tied to the illicit industry.
A Frayed Alliance
The country has long been a close partner of the US in the fight combating drug cartels and received cross-party backing from American politicians, but relations have worsened significantly following Trump assumed the presidency.
Its illicit drug economy is largely controlled by guerrilla factions including the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and breakaway groups of the demobilized Farc, the majority of whose members disbanded following a historic peace agreement.
Colombia's Firm Answer
Upon being questioned whether armed intervention similar to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump said: "I like the sound of that to me."
Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who left armed struggle decades ago, firmly denied these allegations. "I am not illegitimate and certainly not a narco," he stated.
"The US president speaks without knowledge. Cease defaming me," he wrote online.
"Should American forces attack civilians, they will turn into numerous insurgents in the hills. If they capture the president, which a significant portion of the population holds in high esteem, they will release the fierce spirit of the people," the president cautioned.
From Insurgent to Statesman
Petro spent part of his youth as a member with the radical M-19 insurgent movement although reports indicate he did not took part in armed clashes. Following his disarmament, he participated in writing the nation's constitution in the early 90s and eventually served as a respected lawmaker. He served as mayor of Bogotá before being elected the presidency.
"I made a vow not to touch a gun ... but for the homeland I will take up arms again," he affirmed.
Increased Security and Widespread Opposition
Minister Pedro Sánchez reported that the president’s protection team was strengthened.
A segment of Colombia’s right wing opposition have sided with Trump, however, leaders spanning Colombian politics have condemned the possibility of an invasion on Colombia.
Political and Financial Strains
Washington revoked his travel authorization following he urged US troops to ignore any illegal orders. Months later, the US enacted asset freezes on Petro, the first lady and various associates.
Concurrently the US was building up its forces in the region and bombing suspected drug boats to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets have also conducted attacks on maritime targets off the Pacific coast near Colombia.
