Donald Trump and his Colombian counterpart have intensified the rhetoric in their verbal conflict, heightening strains in their relations after US forces struck Venezuela with the aim of deposing the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He has narcotics facilities and processing labs and is not going to be doing it very long," Trump remarked.
Rising Rhetoric coupled with Claims
Talking to the press on Sunday, Trump threatened similar use of force towards the South American nation, claiming the country faces serious problems and “run by an unwell individual who likes making cocaine and trafficking it to the United States."
Although Colombia is the world’s largest producer of cocaine, no proof exists linking President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is directly involved in the trade.
A Strained Relationship
This nation has long been a key ally of the US in the struggle combating drug cartels and benefited from bipartisan support in Washington, yet ties have worsened significantly following Trump assumed the presidency.
Its narcotics trade is largely controlled by illegal armed groups like one major cartel, the ELN guerrilla group and dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), a large contingent of whom laid down arms subsequent to a landmark accord.
Petro's Strong Answer
When asked whether military intervention like that in Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump said: "I like the sound of that to me personally."
The Colombian leader, a former leftist guerrilla who disarmed in the last century, categorically refuted these allegations. "I am not an illegitimate leader nor am I a narco," he affirmed.
"He comments without information. End the false accusations," he wrote in a post.
"If US bombs target peasants, they will become a multitude of fighters in the mountains. And if they detain me, which a large part of the country loves and respects, they will unleash the powerful force of the populace," he admonished.
From Fighter to President
The president dedicated a period in his early life belonging of the leftist M-19 guerrilla group though it is believed that he never engaged in fighting. Following his disarmament, he took part in drafting a new constitution in 1991 and eventually served as a respected lawmaker. He served as mayor of the capital city prior to his election president.
"I made a vow to abstain from using arms again ... but in defense of my country I shall resume arms again," he said.
Reinforced Protection along with Cross-Political Rejection
Minister Pedro Sánchez reported that the national leader's protection team had received additional support.
Many among Colombia’s political right have expressed support with Trump's stance, yet figures from all sides of Colombian politics have rejected the possibility of a US attack against their nation.
Political and Financial Sanctions
The US withdrew Petro’s visa after he encouraged American soldiers to disobey any illegal orders. Months later, authorities imposed asset freezes targeting Petro, his wife and various key allies.
Concurrently the US was building up its forces in the region and striking suspected drug boats to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces also carried out strikes on boats in the eastern Pacific region near Colombia.
