The US President along with Colombia's president have turned up the tone in their verbal conflict, increasing strains between the two countries following American military units struck Venezuela with the aim of deposing President Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He runs cocaine mills and processing labs and his time is running out," the US president stated.
Growing Tensions coupled with Allegations
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, Trump threatened comparable military action against Colombia, claiming the nation faces serious problems and governed by a sick man who enjoys creating the drug and distributing it to America."
While Colombia stands as the leading cocaine-producing country, no proof exists that President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is directly tied to the business.
A Frayed Relationship
This nation has long been a key ally of Washington in the struggle against drug trafficking and enjoyed bipartisan support from American politicians, but relations have worsened markedly following Trump assumed the presidency.
The nation's illicit drug economy is mainly overseen by illegal armed groups including the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and renegade units of the demobilized Farc, most of its former fighters demobilised following a landmark accord.
Petro's Firm Rebuttal
When asked whether armed intervention similar to Venezuela was a possibility for Colombia, Trump responded: "That seems like a good idea to me."
Petro, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who disarmed decades ago, firmly denied the accusations. "I am no an illegitimate leader nor am I a drug trafficker," he declared.
"The US president speaks without information. End the false accusations," he expressed in a post.
"If they [the US] bomb peasants, they will transform into numerous insurgents in the mountains. If they capture me, whom many of the country holds in high esteem, they will release the fierce spirit of the populace," the president cautioned.
From Insurgent to Leader
The president dedicated part of his youth participating with the radical M-19 guerrilla group although reports indicate to have ever engaged in fighting. Following his disarmament, he took part in writing the nation's constitution over three decades ago subsequently becoming an influential politician. He held the office of mayor of the Colombian capital before winning the nation's highest office.
"I made a vow to never again hold a gun ... but in defense of my country I would take up arms again," he said.
Increased Security and Cross-Political Condemnation
Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that the president’s personal security had received additional support.
A segment of Colombia’s right wing opposition have allied themselves with Trump, however, leaders spanning Colombian politics have denounced the notion of American military action targeting Colombia.
Political and Economic Pressure
The US withdrew his travel authorization following he encouraged US troops to disobey unlawful commands. Later, in October, it placed economic restrictions on Petro, his wife and a number of associates.
Simultaneously the US was building up its troop levels in the Caribbean and targeting alleged narcotics traffickers to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, the US have also conducted strikes against vessels in the eastern Pacific region near Colombia.
