Donald Trump and President Gustavo Petro have escalated the volume of their war of words, heightening strains in their relations following US forces struck Venezuela with the aim of deposing President Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He operates cocaine mills and production sites and is not going to be doing it very long," Trump added.
Rising Tensions coupled with Claims
Speaking to journalists over the weekend, the American leader suggested similar use of force against Bogotá, asserting the country is “very sick too” and “run by a sick man involved in producing the drug and trafficking it to America."
Although Colombia remains the world’s largest producer of cocaine, there is no evidence linking President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is in any way connected to the business.
A Frayed Alliance
This nation for decades served as a staunch collaborator of the United States in the struggle combating drug cartels and benefited from cross-party backing in the US capital, however, the relationship have worsened markedly after Trump came to office.
Its illicit drug economy is predominantly run by guerrilla factions such as the Golf Clan, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the former Farc guerrillas, most of its former fighters demobilised after a 2016 peace deal.
The President's Firm Rebuttal
When asked if military intervention similar to Venezuela was on the cards against his country, Trump said: "That seems like a good idea to me personally."
Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who disarmed decades ago, firmly denied the accusations. "I am not illegitimate nor am I involved in narcotics," he declared.
"The US president speaks without knowledge. Stop slandering me," he posted in a post.
"If they [the US] bomb civilians, they will transform into a multitude of fighters in the mountains. If they capture me, whom many of Colombians loves and respects, they will unleash the powerful force of the people," Petro warned.
From Guerrilla to Statesman
The president dedicated part of his youth belonging in the left-wing M-19 armed organization though it is believed to have ever engaged in fighting. After demobilizing, he took part in creating the nation's constitution in the early 90s and eventually served as a prominent senator. He held the office of mayor of the Colombian capital prior to his election the presidency.
"I made a vow not to touch a weapon again ... but for the homeland I would take up weapons once more," he affirmed.
Increased Security and Widespread Rejection
Minister Pedro Sánchez reported that the president’s protection team had received additional support.
Many among Colombia’s right wing opposition have expressed support with the US president, however, leaders spanning Colombian politics have rejected the notion of an invasion on Colombia.
Diplomatic and Economic Sanctions
Washington withdrew the president's entry visa subsequent to he urged US military personnel to disobey any illegal orders. Months later, the US enacted asset freezes on Petro, the first lady and several key allies.
At the same time the US was building up its forces in the region and targeting vessels thought to carry drugs against Venezuela’s Maduro, the US have also conducted attacks on boats in the eastern Pacific region off the Colombian coast.
