Donald Trump and Colombia's president have escalated the tone in their verbal conflict, further raising strains between the two countries after American military units attacked Venezuela in an operation to oust Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro from his position.
"He runs narcotics facilities and processing labs and his time is running out," Trump remarked.
Rising Threats coupled with Accusations
Talking to reporters over the weekend, the American leader threatened analogous use of force towards the South American nation, claiming the nation is “very sick too” and led by a sick man involved in producing narcotics and selling it to America."
Although Colombia stands as the globe's biggest cocaine-producing country, there is no evidence linking President Gustavo Petro, elected two years ago, is personally involved in the trade.
A Deteriorating Alliance
This nation for decades served as a close partner of the United States in the struggle combating drug cartels and received wide political approval in Washington, yet ties have soured significantly since Trump was elected.
The nation's narcotics trade is predominantly run by criminal organizations such as the Golf Clan, the ELN guerrilla group and renegade units of the demobilized Farc, most of its former fighters disbanded following a historic peace agreement.
Colombia's Defiant Answer
In response to a query if a military operation like that in Venezuela was being considered regarding Colombia, Trump replied: "That seems like a good idea to me."
The Colombian leader, an ex-guerrilla fighter who demobilised in the last century, rejected the accusations. "I am neither an illegitimate leader nor am I a narco," he affirmed.
"Trump speaks uninformed. Cease defaming me," he expressed in a post.
"If US bombs target peasants, they will turn into numerous insurgents across the countryside. If they capture me, whom a large part of the country loves and respects, they will release the powerful force of the people," he admonished.
From Guerrilla to President
The president dedicated some years as a young man belonging in the left-wing M-19 armed organization though it is believed he did not took part in armed clashes. Following his disarmament, he took part in writing the nation's constitution in the early 90s subsequently becoming a respected lawmaker. He was mayor of the capital city before winning the nation's highest office.
"I swore not to touch arms again ... but for the homeland I will take up arms again," he affirmed.
Heightened Measures and Widespread Condemnation
The Colombian defence minister announced that the president’s protection team was strengthened.
Many among Colombia’s right wing opposition have allied themselves with Trump's stance, yet figures from across the ideological divide have denounced the threats of an invasion against their nation.
Diplomatic and Financial Sanctions
The US cancelled his travel authorization following he called on US military personnel to disobey any illegal orders. In October, authorities imposed economic restrictions targeting Petro, the first lady and various associates.
Simultaneously the US was building up its forces in the region and targeting suspected drug boats to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces also carried out strikes against vessels off the Pacific coast off the Colombian coast.
