President Trump and Colombia's president have intensified the rhetoric of their exchange, increasing tensions between the two countries following US forces attacked Venezuela in an operation to oust the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He operates drug factories and processing labs and is not going to be doing it very long," the US president stated.
Rising Tensions and Allegations
Talking to the press over the weekend, the American leader suggested analogous use of force against Bogotá, asserting the nation is “very sick too” and “run by a sick man who likes making cocaine and distributing it to America."
Although Colombia remains the leading source of the narcotic, authorities have found no indication that President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is directly connected to the business.
A Deteriorating Alliance
This nation for decades served as a staunch collaborator of Washington in the campaign combating drug cartels and benefited from cross-party backing in Washington, yet ties have deteriorated dramatically after Trump was elected.
Its illicit drug economy is mainly overseen by criminal organizations including 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 subsequent to a landmark accord.
Colombia's Firm Answer
When asked whether military intervention like that in Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump replied: "It sounds good to me."
President Petro, an ex-guerrilla fighter who left armed struggle decades ago, categorically refuted Trump's claims. "I am no an illegitimate leader and certainly not a narco," he declared.
"Trump speaks without information. End the false accusations," he posted online.
"If US bombs target rural communities, they will transform into thousands of guerrillas across the countryside. And should they arrest the president, whom a large part of Colombians admires and supports, they will unleash the powerful force of the populace," the president cautioned.
From Fighter to Statesman
The president dedicated part of his youth belonging with the radical M-19 guerrilla group though it is believed that he never engaged in fighting. Following his disarmament, he participated in drafting the nation's constitution in 1991 subsequently becoming a respected lawmaker. He was mayor of the capital city prior to his election the nation's highest office.
"I swore to abstain from using a weapon again ... but in defense of my country I would take up weapons once more," he affirmed.
Reinforced Protection and Widespread Condemnation
Colombia's defense chief stated that the national leader's security detail was strengthened.
Many among Colombia’s political right have sided with Trump's stance, yet figures from across the political spectrum have denounced the threats of American military action on Colombia.
Bilateral and Financial Strains
American authorities cancelled his travel authorization following he urged American soldiers to ignore any illegal orders. In October, the US enacted asset freezes against the president, his wife and a number of close collaborators.
Simultaneously the US was building up its forces in the region and striking alleged narcotics traffickers to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, the US have also conducted strikes against vessels off the Pacific coast adjacent to Colombia.
