President Trump along with his Colombian counterpart have escalated the tone of their exchange, increasing tensions bilaterally after US forces attacked Venezuela in an operation to oust Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He runs drug factories and processing labs and that won't last much longer," Trump added.
Escalating Threats coupled with Allegations
Talking to reporters over the weekend, the US president hinted at similar military action against Colombia, stating Colombia is “very sick too” and led by a problematic figure who enjoys creating the drug and distributing it to America."
Although Colombia stands as the world’s largest producer of cocaine, authorities have found no indication that President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is in any way involved in the trade.
A Frayed Alliance
Colombia for decades served as a staunch collaborator of the United States in the campaign against narcotics trade and enjoyed wide political approval from American politicians, but relations have deteriorated significantly after Trump assumed the presidency.
Colombia’s illicit drug economy is predominantly run by guerrilla factions like the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and breakaway groups of the former Farc guerrillas, a large contingent of whom disbanded following a 2016 peace deal.
The President's Firm Answer
Upon being questioned if a military operation comparable to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump responded: "That seems like a good idea to me."
President Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who disarmed in the last century, categorically refuted these allegations. "I am no illegitimate nor am I a narco," he affirmed.
"He comments without information. End the false accusations," he expressed online.
"Should American forces attack peasants, they will turn into thousands of guerrillas across the countryside. If they capture the nation's leader, whom a large part of the country loves and respects, they will release the ‘jaguar’ of the nation," the president cautioned.
From Fighter to Leader
The president dedicated some years as a young man belonging in the left-wing M-19 armed organization though it is believed he did not participated in combat. Following his disarmament, he was involved in drafting a new constitution in the early 90s subsequently becoming a prominent senator. He held the office of mayor of Bogotá before winning the presidency.
"I swore not to touch arms again ... but for Colombia I would take up weapons once more," he vowed.
Increased Security along with Cross-Political Opposition
Colombia's defense chief reported that the national leader's security detail was strengthened.
A segment of Colombia’s right wing opposition have expressed support with Trump, however, leaders from across the political spectrum have condemned the threats of American military action targeting Colombia.
Diplomatic and Economic Pressure
Washington revoked Petro’s visa after he urged US troops to disobey any illegal orders. In October, authorities imposed asset freezes on Petro, his spouse and various key allies.
At the same time while America bolstered its forces in the Caribbean and bombing suspected drug boats to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces executed attacks on maritime targets in Pacific waters near Colombia.
