President Trump and his Colombian counterpart have escalated the volume in their verbal conflict, heightening tensions bilaterally after US forces attacked Venezuela with the aim of deposing President Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He operates drug factories and production sites and that won't last much longer," Trump added.
Growing Tensions and Allegations
Addressing reporters over the weekend, Trump threatened comparable use of force against Colombia, asserting Colombia is also "very ill" and led by an unwell individual who enjoys creating narcotics and trafficking it to America."
Although Colombia stands as the globe's biggest cocaine-producing country, there is no evidence that President Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is directly tied to the illicit industry.
A Strained Relationship
This nation for decades served as a close partner of the US in the fight against drug trafficking and enjoyed bipartisan support in Washington, but relations have soured dramatically after Trump assumed the presidency.
Its illicit drug economy is largely controlled by illegal armed groups like one major cartel, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (Farc), a large contingent of whom laid down arms subsequent to a landmark accord.
Colombia's Firm Rebuttal
Upon being questioned whether armed intervention similar to Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump said: "I like the sound of that to me."
President Petro, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who disarmed in the 1990s, firmly denied the accusations. "I am neither an illegitimate leader nor am I a drug trafficker," he affirmed.
"He comments without information. End the false accusations," he wrote in a message.
"Should American forces attack civilians, they will transform into numerous insurgents in the mountains. And should they arrest the nation's leader, which a large part of the country admires and supports, they will release the fierce spirit of the people," the president cautioned.
From Fighter to President
He passed a period in his early life belonging with the radical M-19 insurgent movement though it is believed to have ever participated in combat. Upon leaving the group, he took part in drafting the nation's constitution over three decades ago and later became a respected lawmaker. He held the office of mayor of the Colombian capital before winning the presidency.
"I made a vow to never again hold a gun ... but for the homeland I shall resume weapons once more," he affirmed.
Heightened Measures along with Cross-Political Condemnation
Minister Pedro Sánchez reported that the president’s security detail was strengthened.
Several members of Colombia’s right wing opposition have sided with the US president, but voices from across the political spectrum have denounced the notion of an invasion targeting Colombia.
Diplomatic and Financial Strains
Washington revoked Petro’s visa following he called on US military personnel to disobey any illegal orders. Later, in October, authorities imposed financial sanctions targeting Petro, the first lady and several key allies.
At the same time as the US increased its military presence in the Caribbean and striking suspected drug boats to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces executed attacks against vessels in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.