President Trump and Colombia's president have intensified the rhetoric of their war of words, heightening tensions in their relations following US forces targeted Venezuela in an operation to oust President Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He runs drug factories and cocaine factories and that won't last much longer," the US president stated.
Growing Tensions coupled with Allegations
Addressing journalists on Sunday, the US president threatened comparable use of force against Bogotá, stating the nation is “very sick too” and led by a sick man who likes making narcotics and distributing it to the United States."
Although Colombia remains the leading producer of cocaine, no proof exists linking President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is in any way connected to the business.
A Strained Relationship
This nation for decades served as a staunch collaborator of the United States in the struggle against narcotics trade and benefited from cross-party backing in Washington, however, the relationship have worsened dramatically since Trump came to office.
Its drug trade is mainly overseen by guerrilla factions like one major cartel, the ELN guerrilla group and breakaway groups of the demobilized Farc, the majority of whose members laid down arms following a landmark accord.
The President's Defiant Rebuttal
When asked if a military operation comparable to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump said: "I like the sound of that from my perspective."
The Colombian leader, an ex-guerrilla fighter who left armed struggle decades ago, firmly denied the accusations. "I am neither illegitimate nor am I a drug trafficker," he stated.
"Trump speaks without information. End the false accusations," he posted in a message.
"Should American forces attack civilians, they will become numerous insurgents across the countryside. And should they arrest the president, whom a large part of Colombians holds in high esteem, they will provoke the powerful force of the nation," Petro warned.
From Insurgent to Statesman
Petro spent some years as a young man as a member of the leftist M-19 guerrilla group but is not believed he did not participated in combat. After demobilizing, he took part in drafting the nation's constitution over three decades ago and eventually served as an influential politician. He served as mayor of Bogotá before being elected president.
"I made a vow to abstain from using arms again ... but in defense of my country I shall resume arms again," he affirmed.
Reinforced Protection along with Cross-Political Opposition
The Colombian defence minister stated that Petro's protection team was strengthened.
A segment of Colombia’s right wing opposition have expressed support with Trump, but voices from all sides of the ideological divide have denounced the possibility of an invasion targeting Colombia.
Diplomatic and Financial Sanctions
The US cancelled the president's entry visa following he called on US military personnel to disobey orders that violate law. Months later, authorities imposed financial sanctions on Petro, the first lady and several associates.
At the same time as the US increased its forces in the Caribbean and targeting suspected drug boats against Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces have also conducted strikes on boats off the Pacific coast near Colombia.
