The US President along with his Colombian counterpart have escalated the volume of their exchange, increasing strains between the two countries after American military units attacked Venezuela in an operation to oust the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He has narcotics facilities and processing labs and that won't last much longer," Trump remarked.
Escalating Threats and Accusations
Talking to reporters on Sunday, Trump hinted at similar armed intervention towards the South American nation, stating Colombia is “very sick too” and led by a sick man who likes making the drug and selling it to the US."
Although Colombia stands as the globe's biggest cocaine-producing country, no proof exists linking President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is personally connected to the trade.
A Frayed Relationship
The country for decades served as a close partner of Washington in the campaign against drug trafficking and received wide political approval in Washington, yet ties have deteriorated significantly since Trump was elected.
Its illicit drug economy is mainly overseen by guerrilla factions like one major cartel, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), a large contingent of whom laid down arms after a 2016 peace deal.
Colombia's Firm Response
In response to a query if a military operation similar to Venezuela was being considered against his country, Trump responded: "I like the sound of that to me."
The Colombian leader, an ex-guerrilla fighter who disarmed decades ago, categorically refuted Trump's claims. "I am not illegitimate and certainly not involved in narcotics," he declared.
"Trump speaks without knowledge. Cease defaming me," he expressed online.
"If US bombs target rural communities, they will become a multitude of fighters in the mountains. If they capture me, which a large part of Colombians admires and supports, they will release the fierce spirit of the people," the president cautioned.
From Fighter to Leader
The president dedicated some years as a young man as a member with the radical M-19 armed organization but is not believed to have ever took part in armed clashes. After demobilizing, he was involved in writing the nation's constitution over three decades ago and later became a respected lawmaker. He served as mayor of the capital city prior to his election the presidency.
"I made a vow not to touch a weapon again ... but in defense of my country I would take up the fight," he said.
Reinforced Protection along with Widespread Condemnation
Minister Pedro Sánchez stated that Petro's personal security had received additional support.
Several members of Colombia’s right wing opposition have allied themselves with Trump, however, leaders from all sides of Colombian politics have denounced the notion of a US attack targeting Colombia.
Political and Economic Pressure
Washington cancelled Petro’s visa subsequent to he urged American soldiers to refuse any illegal orders. Later, in October, it placed financial sanctions targeting Petro, the first lady and a number of key allies.
Concurrently as the US increased its troop levels in the region and targeting suspected drug boats to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets also carried out attacks against vessels off the Pacific coast off the Colombian coast.
