President Trump along with his Colombian counterpart have intensified the tone of their war of words, further raising strains in their relations following American military units struck Venezuela in an operation to oust Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from office.
"He operates narcotics facilities and processing labs and his time is running out," Trump added.
Rising Threats coupled with Allegations
Addressing the press on Sunday, the US president hinted at comparable armed intervention towards the South American nation, stating the nation faces serious problems and “run by a sick man who enjoys creating the drug and trafficking it to the United States."
While Colombia stands as the leading cocaine-producing country, authorities have found no indication implicating Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is directly involved in the illicit industry.
A Strained Alliance
This nation for decades served as a key ally of Washington in the struggle against drug trafficking and received cross-party backing from American politicians, but relations have soured markedly following Trump assumed the presidency.
Colombia’s drug trade is mainly overseen by criminal organizations such as one major cartel, another leftist insurgency and renegade units of the former Farc guerrillas, most of its former fighters laid down arms after a historic peace agreement.
Colombia's Strong Response
When asked whether a military operation similar to Venezuela was on the cards for Colombia, Trump responded: "It sounds good to me."
Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who demobilised decades ago, rejected these allegations. "I am no an illegitimate leader nor am I involved in narcotics," he affirmed.
"He comments uninformed. Stop slandering me," he expressed in a message.
"Should American forces attack civilians, they will transform into numerous insurgents in the mountains. If they capture me, which a large part of the population holds in high esteem, they will unleash the powerful force of the nation," Petro warned.
From Insurgent to President
The president dedicated part of his youth belonging of the leftist M-19 armed organization although reports indicate to have ever took part in armed clashes. Following his disarmament, he was involved in drafting the nation's constitution in 1991 and eventually served as a respected lawmaker. He was mayor of the capital city before being elected the presidency.
"I made a vow to abstain from using arms again ... but for Colombia I will take up weapons once more," he affirmed.
Reinforced Protection along with Broad Condemnation
Colombia's defense chief announced that the president’s security detail was strengthened.
Many among Colombia’s right wing opposition have expressed support with Trump's stance, yet figures spanning Colombian politics have condemned the threats of a US attack against their nation.
Political and Financial Pressure
Washington revoked the president's entry visa subsequent to he encouraged US military personnel to ignore any illegal orders. Later, in October, authorities imposed economic restrictions targeting Petro, the first lady and several associates.
At the same time as the US increased its military presence in the Caribbean and bombing suspected drug boats against Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces have also conducted strikes on boats in Pacific waters off the Colombian coast.
