The US President and his Colombian counterpart have intensified the rhetoric of their war of words, further raising tensions in their relations following American military units targeted Venezuela in an operation to oust the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He operates narcotics facilities and processing labs and his time is running out," Trump added.
Escalating Threats coupled with Accusations
Talking to reporters on Sunday, Trump suggested analogous use of force against Bogotá, stating the country is “very sick too” and led by a problematic figure involved in producing cocaine and distributing it to the United States."
While Colombia remains the leading cocaine-producing country, authorities have found no indication that President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is personally tied to the business.
A Strained Alliance
The country for decades served as a staunch collaborator of the United States in the fight combating drug cartels and enjoyed cross-party backing from American politicians, but relations have soured dramatically following Trump was elected.
The nation's illicit drug economy is predominantly run by guerrilla factions including the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and breakaway groups of the former Farc guerrillas, most of its former fighters laid down arms subsequent to a historic peace agreement.
The President's Firm Response
Upon being questioned whether military intervention comparable to Venezuela was being considered for Colombia, Trump responded: "I like the sound of that from my perspective."
The Colombian leader, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who demobilised in the last century, rejected the accusations. "I am neither illegitimate nor am I a drug trafficker," he declared.
"Trump speaks uninformed. Cease defaming me," he wrote in a message.
"If they [the US] bomb peasants, they will transform into numerous insurgents in the hills. And if they detain the nation's leader, which a large part of the country holds in high esteem, they will provoke the fierce spirit of the people," the president cautioned.
From Insurgent to President
The president dedicated some years as a young man participating of the leftist M-19 armed organization although reports indicate that he never took part in armed clashes. After demobilizing, he participated in drafting a new constitution over three decades ago subsequently becoming an influential politician. He served as mayor of the capital city before being elected the presidency.
"I swore to abstain from using a weapon again ... but for the homeland I will take up arms again," he affirmed.
Increased Security along with Widespread Opposition
The Colombian defence minister stated that the president’s personal security was strengthened.
Several members of Colombia’s political right have expressed support with the US president, yet figures spanning the ideological divide have rejected the notion of an invasion on Colombia.
Diplomatic and Economic Pressure
Washington revoked Petro’s visa subsequent to he called on US troops to refuse any illegal orders. Later, in October, it placed financial sanctions on Petro, his spouse and several key allies.
Simultaneously the US was building up its forces near Venezuela and striking suspected drug boats to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets executed attacks on maritime targets off the Pacific coast off the Colombian coast.
