President Trump along with President Gustavo Petro have intensified the tone in their verbal conflict, increasing tensions between the two countries following American military units attacked Venezuela with the aim of deposing the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He runs drug factories and cocaine factories and is not going to be doing it very long," the US president stated.
Escalating Tensions coupled with Accusations
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, the American leader hinted at comparable military action against Colombia, asserting the country faces serious problems and “run by a problematic figure involved in producing cocaine and trafficking it to the United States."
While Colombia stands as the leading producer of cocaine, no proof exists that President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is personally connected to the illicit industry.
A Frayed Relationship
This nation was historically a staunch collaborator of the US in the struggle combating drug cartels and received wide political approval in Washington, yet ties have worsened markedly after Trump was elected.
Its narcotics trade is mainly overseen by criminal organizations including the Golf Clan, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and renegade units of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), the majority of whose members demobilised following a landmark accord.
Petro's Strong Rebuttal
When asked if a military operation like that in Venezuela was being considered for Colombia, Trump said: "I like the sound of that from my perspective."
The Colombian leader, a former leftist guerrilla who disarmed in the last century, categorically refuted these allegations. "I am no an illegitimate leader and certainly not a drug trafficker," he stated.
"The US president speaks without knowledge. End the false accusations," he posted in a post.
"If US bombs target civilians, they will turn into numerous insurgents in the mountains. And if they detain the nation's leader, which many of Colombians holds in high esteem, they will provoke the fierce spirit of the people," the president cautioned.
From Fighter to Statesman
He passed a period in his early life participating of the leftist M-19 armed organization although reports indicate that he never took part in armed clashes. After demobilizing, he took part in writing the nation's constitution over three decades ago and eventually served as a respected lawmaker. He served as mayor of the capital city prior to his election the presidency.
"I made a vow to abstain from using arms again ... but for the homeland I shall resume weapons once more," he affirmed.
Increased Security and Widespread Condemnation
Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that the national leader's personal security had received additional support.
Several members of Colombia’s right wing opposition have sided with Trump, however, leaders from all sides of the ideological divide have denounced the possibility of an invasion against their nation.
Diplomatic and Financial Pressure
Washington cancelled Petro’s visa subsequent to he urged American soldiers to refuse any illegal orders. Later, in October, authorities imposed financial sanctions against the president, the first lady and several key allies.
Concurrently the US was building up its military presence in the region and striking vessels thought to carry drugs to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces also carried out operations against vessels in the eastern Pacific region near Colombia.
