The US President and President Gustavo Petro have turned up the rhetoric of their war of words, increasing tensions bilaterally following US forces targeted Venezuela with the aim of deposing President Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He operates drug factories and processing labs and that won't last much longer," the US president stated.
Rising Tensions and Claims
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Trump hinted at similar military action against Colombia, stating the country faces serious problems and led by an unwell individual who enjoys creating narcotics and selling it to the United States."
Although Colombia is the globe's biggest producer of cocaine, no proof exists implicating Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is in any way connected to the business.
A Deteriorating Alliance
This nation was historically a staunch collaborator of the US in the struggle against drug trafficking and enjoyed cross-party backing from American politicians, but relations have worsened significantly following Trump came to office.
The nation's drug trade is mainly overseen by criminal organizations like the Golf Clan, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), the majority of whose members disbanded after a landmark accord.
Petro's Firm Rebuttal
When asked whether a military operation comparable to Venezuela was on the cards regarding Colombia, Trump said: "I like the sound of that to me personally."
President Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who disarmed in the 1990s, categorically refuted these allegations. "I am neither illegitimate and I am not a narco," he affirmed.
"The US president speaks without knowledge. End the false accusations," he posted in a post.
"Should American forces attack rural communities, they will become numerous insurgents across the countryside. If they capture me, which a significant portion of Colombians holds in high esteem, they will release the fierce spirit of the people," the president cautioned.
From Guerrilla to President
The president dedicated a period in his early life as a member of the leftist M-19 guerrilla group although reports indicate to have ever engaged in fighting. After demobilizing, he took part in writing the nation's constitution over three decades ago and later became a prominent senator. He was mayor of the capital city before being elected the nation's highest office.
"I swore to abstain from using a weapon again ... but for Colombia I will take up the fight," he affirmed.
Reinforced Protection along with Broad Condemnation
The Colombian defence minister announced that the president’s security detail was strengthened.
Many among Colombia’s right wing opposition have expressed support with Trump's stance, but voices from across the political spectrum have denounced the notion of American military action on Colombia.
Bilateral and Financial Strains
Washington revoked Petro’s visa following he urged American soldiers to refuse any illegal orders. Months later, the US enacted asset freezes against the president, the first lady and a number of close collaborators.
At the same time as the US increased its forces near Venezuela and targeting suspected drug boats to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets have also conducted operations on boats in the eastern Pacific region adjacent to Colombia.
