Just days after publicly accusing Colombia’s president of drug trafficking and floating the idea of military action, US President Donald Trump has abruptly shifted tone by inviting Colombian leader Gustavo Petro to the White House. The move followed an hour-long phone call between the two presidents, their first direct contact since Trump’s harsh warnings over drugs and regional security.
Trump said the conversation focused on drug trafficking and broader disagreements, describing Petro’s approach as constructive and respectful. He later announced that preparations were under way for a meeting in Washington, though no date has been confirmed. Petro, speaking to supporters in Bogotá shortly after the call, said the dialogue had helped ease tensions and prevented a dangerous escalation. “If we don’t talk, there is war,” he said, stressing that communication had been restored.
Relations between the two leaders have been tense since Trump’s return to office in January 2025. Trump has repeatedly accused Petro’s government, without evidence, of allowing cocaine flows into the US and previously imposed sanctions on him. Petro, in turn, has condemned US actions in Venezuela and criticised Washington’s foreign policy.
Despite personal hostility, both countries remain deeply interdependent. The US is Colombia’s key security partner, while Colombia is central to Washington’s regional counter-narcotics strategy. The latest outreach suggests diplomacy, at least for now, has replaced confrontation.
