Donald Trump and Colombia's president have intensified the volume of their exchange, heightening tensions in their relations after US forces attacked Venezuela in an operation to oust Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He operates narcotics facilities and processing labs and that won't last much longer," the US president stated.
Growing Threats coupled with Allegations
Speaking to the press on Sunday, the American leader hinted at comparable military action towards the South American nation, claiming the nation is “very sick too” and led by an unwell individual who likes making narcotics and distributing it to America."
While Colombia is the world’s largest source of the narcotic, no proof exists that President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is in any way involved in the trade.
A Frayed Relationship
This nation for decades served as a staunch collaborator of the United States in the campaign combating drug cartels and received wide political approval from American politicians, yet ties have soured markedly since Trump was elected.
Colombia’s illicit drug economy is largely controlled by guerrilla factions like the Clan del Golfo, another leftist insurgency and breakaway groups of the demobilized Farc, a large contingent of whom disbanded after a 2016 peace deal.
Petro's Strong Answer
When asked whether armed intervention comparable to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump responded: "I like the sound of that from my perspective."
Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who left armed struggle decades ago, categorically refuted Trump's claims. "I am not illegitimate and I am not a drug trafficker," he declared.
"He comments without knowledge. End the false accusations," he posted online.
"If US bombs target peasants, they will become thousands of guerrillas across the countryside. And should they arrest the nation's leader, whom many of the country holds in high esteem, they will release the ‘jaguar’ of the nation," he admonished.
From Fighter to President
Petro spent some years as a young man belonging of the leftist M-19 insurgent movement although reports indicate that he never participated in combat. Following his disarmament, he participated in creating the nation's constitution over three decades ago subsequently becoming a respected lawmaker. He held the office of mayor of Bogotá prior to his election the presidency.
"I swore to never again hold a gun ... but for the homeland I shall resume arms again," he said.
Increased Security along with Broad Condemnation
Colombia's defense chief stated that Petro's personal security had received additional support.
Many among Colombia’s right wing opposition have sided with the US president, but voices from all sides of the ideological divide have denounced the notion of American military action against their nation.
Political and Financial Sanctions
The US revoked his travel authorization after he encouraged US troops to ignore unlawful commands. Months later, it placed asset freezes on Petro, his wife and various close collaborators.
At the same time while America bolstered its forces in the region and bombing alleged narcotics traffickers against Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets executed operations against vessels in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.
