President Trump and Colombia's president have escalated the volume in their verbal conflict, increasing strains bilaterally following American military units targeted Venezuela with the aim of deposing the leader of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He has narcotics facilities and processing labs and that won't last much longer," Trump added.
Escalating Threats and Allegations
Talking to the press over the weekend, the US president hinted at similar use of force against Bogotá, claiming Colombia is “very sick too” and governed by a sick man who likes making cocaine and distributing it to America."
Although Colombia remains the world’s largest producer of cocaine, no proof exists linking President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is personally tied to the trade.
A Frayed Relationship
This nation was historically a staunch collaborator of the US in the struggle combating drug cartels and benefited from bipartisan support in Washington, but relations have soured markedly after Trump assumed the presidency.
The nation's drug trade is predominantly run by guerrilla factions like the Golf Clan, the ELN guerrilla group and dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), a large contingent of whom laid down arms subsequent to a landmark accord.
The President's Strong Rebuttal
Upon being questioned if military intervention similar to Venezuela was on the cards for Colombia, Trump said: "It sounds good to me personally."
The Colombian leader, an ex-guerrilla fighter who left armed struggle decades ago, rejected Trump's claims. "I am no an illegitimate leader nor am I a drug trafficker," he declared.
"Trump speaks without knowledge. End the false accusations," he posted in a post.
"If US bombs target civilians, they will turn into thousands of guerrillas in the mountains. And should they arrest me, which a large part of Colombians holds in high esteem, they will release the ‘jaguar’ of the populace," he admonished.
From Fighter to Statesman
The president dedicated a period in his early life belonging of the leftist M-19 insurgent movement though it is believed he did not participated in combat. Following his disarmament, he was involved in creating a new constitution in 1991 and eventually served as a prominent senator. He was mayor of the Colombian capital prior to his election the presidency.
"I made a vow to never again hold a gun ... but in defense of my country I will take up weapons once more," he affirmed.
Heightened Measures along with Widespread Opposition
Minister Pedro Sánchez announced that Petro's personal security was strengthened.
Many among Colombia’s political right have expressed support with the US president, however, leaders from across the ideological divide have denounced the possibility of an invasion targeting Colombia.
Political and Financial Sanctions
The US cancelled his travel authorization after he encouraged US military personnel to disobey any illegal orders. In October, the US enacted asset freezes targeting Petro, the first lady and several associates.
Simultaneously while America bolstered its troop levels in the region and striking vessels thought to carry drugs against Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces also carried out operations on maritime targets off the Pacific coast adjacent to Colombia.
