President Trump and President Gustavo Petro have intensified the rhetoric of their exchange, further raising tensions in their relations after American military units attacked Venezuela in an operation to oust the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He has narcotics facilities and production sites and his time is running out," Trump added.
Growing Threats coupled with Allegations
Talking to the press over the weekend, the US president threatened similar armed intervention against Colombia, claiming Colombia is “very sick too” and led by a sick man involved in producing cocaine and trafficking it to the US."
Although Colombia stands as the leading producer of cocaine, no proof exists implicating Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is in any way connected to the illicit industry.
A Deteriorating Relationship
The country has long been a close partner of the US in the fight combating drug cartels and enjoyed bipartisan support in Washington, but relations have deteriorated dramatically following Trump was elected.
Its drug trade is mainly overseen by criminal organizations such as one major cartel, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and renegade units of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), the majority of whose members laid down arms subsequent to a landmark accord.
The President's Firm Answer
Upon being questioned whether armed intervention like that in Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump replied: "That seems like a good idea from my perspective."
President Petro, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who disarmed decades ago, categorically refuted Trump's claims. "I am neither an illegitimate leader and I am not a drug trafficker," he declared.
"He comments uninformed. Stop slandering me," he expressed online.
"If US bombs target rural communities, they will become numerous insurgents in the hills. If they capture the nation's leader, whom a significant portion of Colombians admires and supports, they will release the fierce spirit of the populace," he admonished.
From Guerrilla to President
The president dedicated part of his youth participating with the radical M-19 armed organization though it is believed to have ever engaged in fighting. Upon leaving the group, he was involved in drafting the nation's constitution over three decades ago and later became a prominent senator. He served as mayor of the capital city prior to his election the nation's highest office.
"I swore to abstain from using a gun ... but in defense of my country I would take up arms again," he vowed.
Increased Security and Cross-Political Condemnation
Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that the national leader's protection team was strengthened.
Many among Colombia’s political right have sided with Trump's stance, yet figures from across the political spectrum have condemned the possibility of a US attack on Colombia.
Bilateral and Economic Strains
American authorities revoked Petro’s visa after he urged US troops to refuse unlawful commands. Later, in October, the US enacted economic restrictions on Petro, his spouse and a number of close collaborators.
At the same time while America bolstered its forces in the Caribbean and striking vessels thought to carry drugs to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, the US have also conducted strikes on boats in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.
