Donald Trump and his Colombian counterpart have escalated the volume of their exchange, heightening strains between the two countries after US forces targeted Venezuela with the aim of deposing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He operates cocaine mills and cocaine factories and his time is running out," Trump remarked.
Growing Rhetoric and Claims
Addressing the press over the weekend, the US president threatened similar armed intervention towards the South American nation, claiming the nation is also "very ill" and led by a problematic figure who enjoys creating cocaine and trafficking it to the United States."
Although Colombia remains the world’s largest producer of cocaine, no proof exists that President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is in any way involved in the illicit industry.
A Strained Relationship
This nation was historically a key ally of the United States in the struggle against drug trafficking and enjoyed cross-party backing in Washington, but relations have deteriorated dramatically since Trump assumed the presidency.
The nation's illicit drug economy is predominantly run by illegal armed groups like the Golf Clan, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and renegade units of the demobilized Farc, a large contingent of whom disbanded following a historic peace agreement.
Colombia's Strong Rebuttal
Upon being questioned if military intervention comparable to Venezuela was being considered for Colombia, Trump responded: "I like the sound of that from my perspective."
President Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who disarmed in the last century, categorically refuted these allegations. "I am no illegitimate nor am I a drug trafficker," he declared.
"He comments without knowledge. End the false accusations," he wrote in a post.
"Should American forces attack civilians, they will turn into a multitude of fighters in the hills. And if they detain the nation's leader, which many of the population loves and respects, they will release the fierce spirit of the people," he admonished.
From Insurgent to President
He passed part of his youth belonging with the radical M-19 armed organization although reports indicate to have ever engaged in fighting. Following his disarmament, he was involved in creating the nation's constitution in 1991 and eventually served as a respected lawmaker. He held the office of mayor of the capital city before winning the nation's highest office.
"I swore to never again hold arms again ... but in defense of my country I would take up weapons once more," he affirmed.
Increased Security and Widespread Condemnation
The Colombian defence minister stated that the president’s protection team had received additional support.
Many among Colombia’s political right have expressed support with Trump's stance, yet figures from across Colombian politics have denounced the possibility of American military action against their nation.
Bilateral and Financial Strains
Washington withdrew the president's entry visa after he encouraged US troops to ignore any illegal orders. In October, authorities imposed financial sanctions targeting Petro, the first lady and various close collaborators.
At the same time as the US increased its military presence in the region and targeting suspected drug boats to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces also carried out operations on maritime targets off the Pacific coast adjacent to Colombia.
