Donald Trump and his Colombian counterpart have intensified the rhetoric in their verbal conflict, further raising strains between the two countries following American military units targeted Venezuela with the aim of deposing the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He has narcotics facilities and cocaine factories and his time is running out," Trump added.
Escalating Rhetoric coupled with Accusations
Speaking to journalists over the weekend, the American leader suggested analogous armed intervention towards the South American nation, asserting Colombia faces serious problems and governed by a sick man who likes making the drug and distributing it to the US."
Although Colombia remains the globe's biggest producer of cocaine, there is no evidence that President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is in any way connected to the trade.
A Deteriorating Alliance
The country for decades served as a staunch collaborator of Washington in the struggle against drug trafficking and benefited from cross-party backing in the US capital, however, the relationship have deteriorated significantly after Trump assumed the presidency.
Its illicit drug economy is predominantly run by illegal armed groups like one major cartel, another leftist insurgency and breakaway groups of the former Farc guerrillas, the majority of whose members demobilised following a landmark accord.
The President's Strong Rebuttal
When asked whether military intervention like that in Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump responded: "I like the sound of that to me."
The Colombian leader, a former leftist guerrilla who disarmed decades ago, rejected Trump's claims. "I am neither an illegitimate leader nor am I a narco," he affirmed.
"Trump speaks without knowledge. Cease defaming me," he expressed in a message.
"If they [the US] bomb peasants, they will turn into thousands of guerrillas in the mountains. And if they detain the nation's leader, whom a large part of the country loves and respects, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the people," he admonished.
From Fighter to Statesman
He passed part of his youth belonging in the left-wing M-19 guerrilla group though it is believed that he never participated in combat. After demobilizing, he was involved in writing the nation's constitution in the early 90s and eventually served as a respected lawmaker. He served as mayor of the Colombian capital before being elected the nation's highest office.
"I pledged to never again hold arms again ... but in defense of my country I would take up arms again," he vowed.
Reinforced Protection along with Broad Condemnation
Colombia's defense chief reported that Petro's security detail had received additional support.
A segment of Colombia’s political right have expressed support with Trump, however, leaders spanning the political spectrum have denounced the threats of an invasion against their nation.
Political and Financial Pressure
American authorities withdrew Petro’s visa subsequent to he called on American soldiers to disobey unlawful commands. Months later, authorities imposed financial sanctions on Petro, the first lady and several associates.
At the same time as the US increased its forces near Venezuela and striking suspected drug boats to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, American military assets also carried out attacks on boats in the eastern Pacific region near Colombia.
