Donald Trump and his Colombian counterpart have escalated the rhetoric in their verbal conflict, heightening tensions bilaterally after US forces targeted Venezuela in an operation to oust President Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He operates narcotics facilities and production sites and is not going to be doing it very long," Trump added.
Growing Rhetoric and Claims
Talking to reporters over the weekend, the US president threatened analogous use of force against Colombia, claiming the country is “very sick too” and “run by a problematic figure who enjoys creating the drug and selling it to the United States."
While Colombia remains the leading source of the narcotic, authorities have found no indication linking President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is in any way tied to the illicit industry.
A Deteriorating Partnership
This nation was historically a staunch collaborator of the US in the campaign against drug trafficking and enjoyed wide political approval in Washington, but relations have worsened dramatically following Trump assumed the presidency.
The nation's drug trade is largely controlled by illegal armed groups including the Clan del Golfo, the ELN guerrilla group and breakaway groups of the former Farc guerrillas, most of its former fighters disbanded following a landmark accord.
The President's Defiant Rebuttal
In response to a query if military intervention similar to Venezuela was on the cards for Colombia, Trump replied: "That seems like a good idea from my perspective."
Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who left armed struggle decades ago, categorically refuted the accusations. "I am not an illegitimate leader nor am I a drug trafficker," he affirmed.
"He comments without information. Cease defaming me," he posted in a message.
"If they [the US] bomb peasants, they will become a multitude of fighters in the hills. If they capture the nation's leader, whom many of the country holds in high esteem, they will provoke the ‘jaguar’ of the people," the president cautioned.
From Insurgent to Leader
He passed part of his youth as a member in the left-wing M-19 insurgent movement but is not believed he did not engaged in fighting. Following his disarmament, he took part in creating a new constitution over three decades ago subsequently becoming a prominent senator. He was mayor of the capital city before being elected the presidency.
"I made a vow not to touch a weapon again ... but for Colombia I would take up arms again," he vowed.
Increased Security along with Cross-Political Condemnation
The Colombian defence minister announced that Petro's security detail had been reinforced.
Many among Colombia’s political right have expressed support with the US president, yet figures from across the ideological divide have denounced the possibility of an invasion targeting Colombia.
Diplomatic and Financial Sanctions
The US revoked the president's entry visa after he called on US troops to disobey orders that violate law. In October, authorities imposed financial sanctions targeting Petro, the first lady and a number of close collaborators.
At the same time while America bolstered its military presence in the region and targeting suspected drug boats to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, the US also carried out operations on boats in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.
