Colombian Leader Says 'I Would Take Up Arms Again' should US Launches an Attack.

Donald Trump along with Colombia's president have escalated the volume of their exchange, increasing tensions in their relations after American military units targeted Venezuela in an operation to oust President Nicolás Maduro from power.

"He operates cocaine mills and production sites and that won't last much longer," Trump added.

Rising Rhetoric and Allegations

Addressing journalists over the weekend, Trump suggested similar military action against Colombia, claiming the nation faces serious problems and governed by an unwell individual who likes making narcotics and distributing it to the US."

Although Colombia remains the world’s largest producer of cocaine, no proof exists that President Gustavo Petro, who was elected in 2022, is personally connected to the trade.

A Deteriorating Relationship

Colombia was historically a staunch collaborator of Washington in the fight combating drug cartels and benefited from wide political approval from American politicians, however, the relationship have soured dramatically since Trump was elected.

Colombia’s drug trade is largely controlled by guerrilla factions such as the Clan del Golfo, the National Liberation Army (ELN) and dissident factions of the former Farc guerrillas, the majority of whose members laid down arms after a historic peace agreement.

Petro's Strong Response

When asked if a military operation comparable to Venezuela was a possibility for Colombia, Trump replied: "That seems like a good idea to me personally."

The Colombian leader, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who demobilised decades ago, rejected Trump's claims. "I am neither an illegitimate leader and certainly not a drug trafficker," he affirmed.

"Trump speaks without information. Cease defaming me," he posted online.

"If US bombs target civilians, they will transform into thousands of guerrillas in the hills. And if they detain the president, which a large part of the population admires and supports, they will release the fierce spirit of the nation," the president cautioned.

From Insurgent to Leader

Petro spent part of his youth as a member of the leftist M-19 insurgent movement but is not believed he did not took part in armed clashes. After demobilizing, he took part in drafting a new constitution over three decades ago and eventually served as a prominent senator. He held the office of mayor of the capital city prior to his election president.

"I pledged to never again hold a weapon again ... but for the homeland I shall resume the fight," he affirmed.

Heightened Measures and Cross-Political Opposition

The Colombian defence minister stated that the national leader's security detail had been reinforced.

Many among Colombia’s right wing opposition have sided with Trump's stance, however, leaders from across the ideological divide have rejected the threats of an invasion on Colombia.

Political and Financial Sanctions

Washington revoked the president's entry visa following he urged American soldiers to ignore unlawful commands. Months later, the US enacted asset freezes targeting Petro, the first lady and various key allies.

Simultaneously while America bolstered its military presence near Venezuela and bombing suspected drug boats to pressure Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces executed operations on boats off the Pacific coast near Colombia.