Donald Trump and his Colombian counterpart have intensified the rhetoric in their verbal conflict, heightening tensions between the two countries following US forces attacked Venezuela to remove Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He operates cocaine mills and processing labs and is not going to be doing it very long," the US president stated.
Escalating Threats coupled with Accusations
Addressing reporters over the weekend, Trump threatened similar use of force towards the South American nation, asserting the country is “very sick too” and “run by an unwell individual who enjoys creating the drug and distributing it to the United States."
Although Colombia remains the leading cocaine-producing country, no proof exists that President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is directly involved in the business.
A Frayed Relationship
The country for decades served as a staunch collaborator of the US in the struggle against drug trafficking and received bipartisan support in Washington, but relations have worsened significantly following Trump assumed the presidency.
The nation's illicit drug economy is predominantly run by guerrilla factions like the Clan del Golfo, the ELN guerrilla group and dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), most of its former fighters laid down arms after a landmark accord.
The President's Defiant Response
In response to a query whether a military operation similar to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump replied: "It sounds good to me personally."
Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who demobilised decades ago, rejected these allegations. "I am neither an illegitimate leader nor am I a narco," he affirmed.
"He comments without knowledge. End the false accusations," he posted online.
"If US bombs target peasants, they will transform into a multitude of fighters across the countryside. And should they arrest the nation's leader, whom a large part of the country holds in high esteem, they will provoke the fierce spirit of the nation," he admonished.
From Guerrilla to Leader
He passed part of his youth participating of the leftist M-19 insurgent movement but is not believed he did not engaged in fighting. After demobilizing, he participated in drafting the nation's constitution over three decades ago and eventually served as a prominent senator. He served as mayor of the capital city before being elected president.
"I pledged to abstain from using a gun ... but in defense of my country I would take up weapons once more," he said.
Reinforced Protection and Widespread Condemnation
Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that the national leader's protection team had received additional support.
A segment of Colombia’s right wing opposition have expressed support with the US president, but voices from across Colombian politics have rejected the threats of American military action against their nation.
Bilateral and Financial Pressure
Washington revoked his travel authorization subsequent to he encouraged US military personnel to disobey orders that violate law. Later, in October, it placed asset freezes against the president, his wife and several close collaborators.
At the same time while America bolstered its forces near Venezuela and targeting suspected drug boats against Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets executed strikes on maritime targets in Pacific waters near Colombia.
