Donald Trump along with his Colombian counterpart have turned up the rhetoric of their war of words, further raising strains bilaterally following American military units targeted Venezuela in an operation to oust Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He operates drug factories and production sites and his time is running out," the US president stated.
Rising Tensions and Claims
Speaking to reporters over the weekend, the US president hinted at comparable military action against Bogotá, claiming Colombia is “very sick too” and led by a problematic figure who likes making cocaine and selling it to the United States."
Although Colombia remains the world’s largest producer of cocaine, authorities have found no indication implicating Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is directly tied to the trade.
A Strained Alliance
Colombia was historically a close partner of Washington in the fight combating drug cartels and received cross-party backing in Washington, however, the relationship have worsened dramatically following Trump was elected.
Its narcotics trade is mainly overseen by guerrilla factions including one major cartel, the ELN guerrilla group and dissident factions of the demobilized Farc, the majority of whose members laid down arms subsequent to a 2016 peace deal.
Petro's Defiant Response
When asked whether military intervention similar to Venezuela was on the cards against his country, Trump responded: "That seems like a good idea from my perspective."
The Colombian leader, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who demobilised in the last century, rejected the accusations. "I am not illegitimate nor am I involved in narcotics," he declared.
"Trump speaks without information. End the false accusations," he posted in a message.
"If US bombs target civilians, they will transform into numerous insurgents in the hills. And if they detain me, which a significant portion of the population loves and respects, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the people," he admonished.
From Insurgent to President
Petro spent a period in his early life as a member of the leftist M-19 armed organization but is not believed to have ever participated in combat. Upon leaving the group, he was involved in drafting the nation's constitution over three decades ago and eventually served as an influential politician. He held the office of mayor of Bogotá before being elected the nation's highest office.
"I pledged to never again hold arms again ... but for Colombia I would take up weapons once more," he affirmed.
Increased Security and Cross-Political Condemnation
Minister Pedro Sánchez reported that Petro's personal security had been reinforced.
Many among Colombia’s conservative opposition have allied themselves with Trump's stance, but voices from across the political spectrum have rejected the notion of American military action targeting Colombia.
Bilateral and Economic Pressure
The US withdrew Petro’s visa following he urged US troops to refuse unlawful commands. Later, in October, the US enacted financial sanctions on Petro, his wife and several close collaborators.
Simultaneously as the US increased its military presence in the region and bombing suspected drug boats to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces have also conducted operations on boats in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.
