The US President along with his Colombian counterpart have turned up the volume in their verbal conflict, further raising tensions bilaterally after American military units attacked Venezuela with the aim of deposing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He has narcotics facilities and processing labs and his time is running out," Trump added.
Rising Threats coupled with Claims
Talking to the press over the weekend, the American leader suggested similar use of force against Bogotá, asserting Colombia is “very sick too” and led by a problematic figure who enjoys creating narcotics and distributing it to the US."
While Colombia remains the leading cocaine-producing country, there is no evidence implicating Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is personally connected to the trade.
A Strained Partnership
Colombia has long been a staunch collaborator of the US in the struggle combating drug cartels and enjoyed bipartisan support from American politicians, yet ties have worsened markedly since Trump was elected.
The nation's illicit drug economy is predominantly run by illegal armed groups including the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and renegade units of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), a large contingent of whom disbanded after a landmark accord.
Colombia's Firm Answer
In response to a query whether a military operation comparable to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump said: "That seems like a good idea from my perspective."
Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who disarmed in the last century, rejected these allegations. "I am neither an illegitimate leader and I am not involved in narcotics," he stated.
"Trump speaks uninformed. End the false accusations," he expressed online.
"If US bombs target civilians, they will turn into numerous insurgents across the countryside. And if they detain the nation's leader, which many of Colombians loves and respects, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the people," he admonished.
From Fighter to Leader
He passed part of his youth participating with the radical M-19 armed organization although reports indicate to have ever took part in armed clashes. Upon leaving the group, he was involved in drafting the constitutional rewrite over three decades ago and eventually served as a prominent senator. He held the office of mayor of the capital city before winning the nation's highest office.
"I made a vow not to touch a weapon again ... but in defense of my country I would take up arms again," he affirmed.
Reinforced Protection and Widespread Opposition
Minister Pedro Sánchez reported that the national leader's protection team was strengthened.
A segment of Colombia’s right wing opposition have allied themselves with the US president, yet figures spanning the ideological divide have denounced the threats of a US attack on Colombia.
Diplomatic and Financial Strains
Washington revoked the president's entry visa subsequent to he urged American soldiers to refuse orders that violate law. Later, in October, it placed asset freezes targeting Petro, the first lady and various associates.
Simultaneously while America bolstered its military presence in the Caribbean and bombing vessels thought to carry drugs to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets have also conducted operations against vessels in Pacific waters off the Colombian coast.
