Tensions between the United States and Colombia escalated after President Donald Trump suggested potential military action against Colombia, following a US operation in Venezuela to remove Nicolás Maduro from power. Speaking on Air Force One, Trump accused Colombian President Gustavo Petro of running the country like a “sick man” involved in cocaine production, warning that “cocaine mills and factories” would not operate for long.
There is no evidence linking Petro, elected in 2022, to drug trafficking. Colombia’s narcotics trade is largely controlled by armed groups such as the Golf Clan, ELN, and dissident Farc factions, while the country remains a longtime US partner in anti-drug efforts. When asked about military intervention, Trump said, “It sounds good to me.”
Petro strongly rejected the claims, calling them slander and warning that any US attack would radicalize Colombians, saying, “If they bomb, the campesinos will become thousands of guerrillas in the mountains.” He emphasized his past demobilization as a guerrilla, his role in drafting Colombia’s constitution, and his commitment to the country, while stating he would take up arms again if necessary.
Colombia has reinforced Petro’s security. Right-wing opposition allies with Trump, but most political voices denounced US threats. Meanwhile, US forces continue operations in the Caribbean and off Colombia’s coast as pressure on Venezuela rises.
