Donald Trump along with his Colombian counterpart have turned up the tone in their verbal conflict, increasing strains in their relations after American military units targeted Venezuela in an operation to oust the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He has narcotics facilities and processing labs and his time is running out," Trump added.
Escalating Tensions and Accusations
Talking to the press over the weekend, Trump suggested comparable use of force against Colombia, asserting the country faces serious problems and “run by a problematic figure involved in producing the drug and selling it to America."
While Colombia stands as the leading cocaine-producing country, authorities have found no indication linking President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is personally tied to the business.
A Strained Alliance
This nation has long been a close partner of the US in the struggle combating drug cartels and benefited from wide political approval in the US capital, however, the relationship have worsened significantly since Trump was elected.
Colombia’s drug trade is mainly overseen by criminal organizations like the Golf Clan, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and renegade units of the demobilized Farc, the majority of whose members disbanded after a landmark accord.
Petro's Strong Answer
Upon being questioned if a military operation similar to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump replied: "That seems like a good idea to me."
President Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who demobilised decades ago, categorically refuted the accusations. "I am no illegitimate nor am I involved in narcotics," he affirmed.
"Trump speaks without information. End the false accusations," he wrote in a message.
"If US bombs target peasants, they will become thousands of guerrillas across the countryside. If they capture the president, whom a significant portion of the country admires and supports, they will provoke the ‘jaguar’ of the nation," the president cautioned.
From Guerrilla to Leader
The president dedicated a period in his early life participating in the left-wing M-19 armed organization though it is believed he did not engaged in fighting. After demobilizing, he was involved in creating a new constitution over three decades ago subsequently becoming a prominent senator. He was mayor of the Colombian capital before being elected the nation's highest office.
"I pledged not to touch a weapon again ... but in defense of my country I would take up arms again," he vowed.
Increased Security along with Cross-Political Opposition
The Colombian defence minister reported that the national leader's personal security had received additional support.
A segment of Colombia’s right wing opposition have expressed support with Trump's stance, however, leaders from all sides of the political spectrum have condemned the notion of a US attack on Colombia.
Bilateral and Economic Pressure
Washington revoked his travel authorization following he urged US troops to ignore orders that violate law. Months later, authorities imposed asset freezes on Petro, the first lady and various key allies.
At the same time the US was building up its troop levels near Venezuela and bombing vessels thought to carry drugs to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, the US executed strikes on maritime targets in the eastern Pacific region off the Colombian coast.
