President Trump and his Colombian counterpart have escalated the tone of their war of words, heightening tensions bilaterally after American military units struck Venezuela with the aim of deposing the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He operates cocaine mills and production sites and that won't last much longer," the US president stated.
Escalating Rhetoric and Claims
Addressing reporters on Sunday, the US president suggested similar use of force against Colombia, claiming Colombia faces serious problems and governed by a problematic figure who likes making the drug and trafficking it to the United States."
Although Colombia remains the world’s largest producer of cocaine, authorities have found no indication that President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is directly connected to the illicit industry.
A Strained Partnership
This nation was historically a staunch collaborator of Washington in the struggle combating drug cartels and benefited from wide political approval in Washington, but relations have soured significantly following Trump assumed the presidency.
The nation's illicit drug economy is predominantly run by guerrilla factions such as one major cartel, the ELN guerrilla group and breakaway groups of the former Farc guerrillas, most of its former fighters demobilised subsequent to a historic peace agreement.
Petro's Strong Rebuttal
In response to a query if military intervention similar to Venezuela was being considered for Colombia, Trump said: "That seems like a good idea to me personally."
The Colombian leader, an ex-guerrilla fighter who demobilised decades ago, categorically refuted Trump's claims. "I am not illegitimate and certainly not a drug trafficker," he affirmed.
"The US president speaks without information. Stop slandering me," he posted in a message.
"If US bombs target rural communities, they will become a multitude of fighters across the countryside. And should they arrest the president, whom a significant portion of the country admires and supports, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the populace," Petro warned.
From Guerrilla to Statesman
The president dedicated part of his youth participating with the radical M-19 armed organization though it is believed he did not took part in armed clashes. Following his disarmament, he took part in creating a new constitution over three decades ago and eventually served as a prominent senator. He served as mayor of the capital city prior to his election the presidency.
"I made a vow to abstain from using a weapon again ... but for the homeland I will take up weapons once more," he said.
Increased Security along with Widespread Rejection
Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that the president’s personal security had been reinforced.
Several members of Colombia’s conservative opposition have expressed support with the US president, however, leaders from all sides of the political spectrum have denounced the possibility of a US attack targeting Colombia.
Bilateral and Economic Pressure
American authorities withdrew the president's entry visa following he encouraged US troops to ignore any illegal orders. Months later, the US enacted financial sanctions targeting Petro, his spouse and various associates.
Concurrently the US was building up its military presence in the Caribbean and striking suspected drug boats to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets executed operations against vessels in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.
