Donald Trump along with Colombia's president have escalated the rhetoric of their war of words, increasing tensions in their relations after American military units attacked Venezuela in an operation to oust President Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He operates drug factories and cocaine factories and that won't last much longer," Trump added.
Rising Threats and Allegations
Speaking to the press on Sunday, Trump suggested comparable use of force towards the South American nation, asserting the country faces serious problems and governed by an unwell individual who enjoys creating cocaine and trafficking it to America."
While Colombia remains the globe's biggest producer of cocaine, no proof exists that President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is personally connected to the trade.
A Frayed Partnership
This nation for decades served as a staunch collaborator of the United States in the campaign against narcotics trade and received bipartisan support in Washington, however, the relationship have soured dramatically after Trump assumed the presidency.
Colombia’s illicit drug economy is largely controlled by guerrilla factions such as the Clan del Golfo, the ELN guerrilla group and dissident factions of the former Farc guerrillas, the majority of whose members disbanded subsequent to a historic peace agreement.
The President's Strong Response
Upon being questioned if a military operation comparable to Venezuela was being considered for Colombia, Trump responded: "That seems like a good idea to me personally."
Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who disarmed in the 1990s, firmly denied Trump's claims. "I am not an illegitimate leader nor am I involved in narcotics," he stated.
"Trump speaks without knowledge. End the false accusations," he expressed online.
"Should American forces attack civilians, they will become numerous insurgents across the countryside. If they capture the president, which a significant portion of Colombians holds in high esteem, they will provoke the powerful force of the nation," the president cautioned.
From Insurgent to Statesman
He passed a period in his early life as a member in the left-wing M-19 guerrilla group but is not believed that he never engaged in fighting. Upon leaving the group, he took part in writing a new constitution in the early 90s and later became an influential politician. He was mayor of the Colombian capital before winning the presidency.
"I pledged to never again hold arms again ... but in defense of my country I shall resume the fight," he said.
Reinforced Protection along with Widespread Condemnation
The Colombian defence minister stated that the national leader's protection team had received additional support.
Several members of Colombia’s conservative opposition have expressed support with Trump, yet figures spanning Colombian politics have rejected the threats of a US attack against their nation.
Diplomatic and Financial Strains
Washington cancelled Petro’s visa subsequent to he called on US military personnel to disobey any illegal orders. In October, authorities imposed financial sanctions against the president, his wife and a number of key allies.
Concurrently while America bolstered its troop levels near Venezuela and striking suspected drug boats against Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces have also conducted strikes against vessels off the Pacific coast near Colombia.
