President Trump and his Colombian counterpart have turned up the tone of their war of words, heightening strains in their relations after American military units targeted Venezuela with the aim of deposing President Nicolás Maduro from power.
"He operates narcotics facilities and cocaine factories and his time is running out," Trump added.
Rising Tensions and Claims
Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Trump suggested similar use of force towards the South American nation, stating Colombia faces serious problems and governed by a sick man involved in producing narcotics and distributing it to the US."
While Colombia stands as the leading cocaine-producing country, authorities have found no indication implicating Gustavo Petro, the nation's current leader, is personally involved in the business.
A Frayed Relationship
The country for decades served as a key ally of Washington in the struggle against drug trafficking and benefited from cross-party backing in Washington, but relations have soured dramatically since Trump came to office.
Its drug trade is mainly overseen by guerrilla factions including one major cartel, the ELN guerrilla group and renegade units of the demobilized Farc, the majority of whose members laid down arms after a 2016 peace deal.
Colombia's Strong Response
In response to a query whether military intervention comparable to Venezuela was being considered for Colombia, Trump replied: "That seems like a good idea to me."
Petro, a former leftist guerrilla who disarmed decades ago, categorically refuted these allegations. "I am neither illegitimate and I am not a narco," he declared.
"He comments without knowledge. Cease defaming me," he posted online.
"If they [the US] bomb peasants, they will transform into a multitude of fighters in the mountains. And if they detain the nation's leader, whom many of the country holds in high esteem, they will unleash the fierce spirit of the people," he admonished.
From Fighter to Leader
He passed part of his youth as a member in the left-wing M-19 armed organization but is not believed he did not participated in combat. After demobilizing, he participated in writing the constitutional rewrite in 1991 subsequently becoming a respected lawmaker. He held the office of mayor of the Colombian capital before being elected the presidency.
"I pledged to never again hold a gun ... but for the homeland I shall resume weapons once more," he affirmed.
Reinforced Protection along with Widespread Rejection
The Colombian defence minister reported that Petro's personal security was strengthened.
A segment of Colombia’s right wing opposition have allied themselves with Trump's stance, however, leaders from across Colombian politics have rejected the notion of an invasion targeting Colombia.
Political and Financial Pressure
Washington cancelled his travel authorization subsequent to he called on US troops to disobey any illegal orders. Months later, authorities imposed financial sanctions targeting Petro, the first lady and various associates.
Concurrently the US was building up its military presence in the region and striking suspected drug boats to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces have also conducted operations against vessels in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.
