Colombia's Leader Declares 'I Would Take Up Arms Once More' should US Launches an Attack.

Donald Trump and his Colombian counterpart have escalated the volume of their exchange, increasing strains in their relations following US forces targeted Venezuela with the aim of deposing President Nicolás Maduro from power.

"He has narcotics facilities and processing labs and that won't last much longer," Trump added.

Growing Rhetoric and Allegations

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, Trump threatened comparable use of force towards the South American nation, stating the country is “very sick too” and governed 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 implicating Gustavo Petro, who was elected in 2022, is directly involved in the business.

A Deteriorating Partnership

This nation for decades served as a key ally of the United States in the campaign against narcotics trade and benefited from bipartisan support in the US capital, however, the relationship have soured dramatically following Trump came to office.

Colombia’s illicit drug economy is predominantly run by guerrilla factions like one major cartel, the ELN guerrilla group and renegade units of the former Farc guerrillas, a large contingent of whom disbanded following a 2016 peace deal.

Colombia's Firm Response

In response to a query whether military intervention similar to Venezuela was on the cards against his country, Trump responded: "That seems like a good idea to me personally."

The Colombian leader, once a member of a left-wing insurgent group who disarmed in the last century, categorically refuted Trump's claims. "I am not illegitimate nor am I a drug trafficker," he declared.

"Trump speaks without information. Cease defaming me," he posted in a message.

"Should American forces attack peasants, they will transform into a multitude of fighters in the mountains. If they capture the nation's leader, which many of the country holds in high esteem, they will release the powerful force of the people," he admonished.

From Insurgent to Leader

The president dedicated some years as a young man participating with the radical M-19 guerrilla group though it is believed to have ever engaged in fighting. After demobilizing, he was involved in creating the nation's constitution in the early 90s and eventually served as a respected lawmaker. He was mayor of the Colombian capital before winning the presidency.

"I swore to never again hold a weapon again ... but in defense of my country I shall resume arms again," he vowed.

Increased Security and Broad Condemnation

The Colombian defence minister reported that the president’s protection team had been reinforced.

Several members of Colombia’s right wing opposition have allied themselves with the US president, but voices spanning the political spectrum have denounced the notion of a US attack targeting Colombia.

Diplomatic and Financial Sanctions

American authorities withdrew his travel authorization subsequent to he urged US troops to refuse orders that violate law. Later, in October, the US enacted asset freezes on Petro, his wife and various key allies.

Simultaneously the US was building up its military presence in the Caribbean and bombing alleged narcotics traffickers to put pressure on Venezuela’s Maduro, US forces executed strikes on boats in Pacific waters adjacent to Colombia.