U.S. President Donald Trump has stated his intention to meet Colombian President Gustavo Petro at the White House in the near future, just days after complimenting an operation against drug trafficking in Colombia. This development follows a U.S. military operation that resulted in the apprehension of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and has raised alarms about violence and increased fatalities in the region.
During a recent call, Petro discussed various issues including drugs and disputes, with Trump expressing appreciation for Petro's communication style. However, entire relations have been characterized by Trump’s earlier threats directed at the Colombian leader, warning him to watch his ass.
Colombia plays a critical role in the South American drug trade, particularly in cocaine production, alongside possessing substantial amounts of natural resources like oil, gold, and other minerals. Speculations abound regarding U.S. policies aimed at controlling the sale of Venezuelan oil following the recent detention of Maduro.
Amidst these discussions, Trump described Petro as someone engaged in drug trafficking, expressing confidence that such activities would not persist under his administration. Petro, for his part, has warned against any military actions from the U.S. towards Colombia, suggesting such actions would provoke significant backlash from the Colombian populace.
Trump later referred to his conversation with Petro as an honor and indicated that arrangements for Petro's visit to Washington would be facilitated by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
As the situation develops, these diplomatic ties continue to evolve amid growing concerns over drug trafficking and political instability in both Colombia and Venezuela.
